- Mainsail
- Selftacking jib
- Gennaker
- Spinnaker
This Australian couple, initially with little sailing experience, have been documenting their journey around the world under sail since 2014. If you don’t already know them, it’s time to discover these celebrities that we love to follow…
What is the difference between the outremer 45 and the 4x, what are the latest innovations on the outremer 45, what is the payload of the 45', can you sail around the world in complete safety on a 45'.
Beyond building your boat, Outremer brings your dreams to life by being by your side at every stage of your project. To always better support you, we have created Outremer Services. This structure, integrated within Grand Large Services is able to meet all your needs, from the start of your project to the resale of your catamaran.
Seminars on the theme of blue-water cruising, training on land and at sea, charter, concierge services, refit, a network of approved partners around the world, OCM ™ e-maintenance and lastly brokerage. We offer complete and personalized support according to best fit your needs.
Impatient, not sure you can invest in a new catamaran or simply curious? See our latest second-hand boats on offer. Please note that the demand is high, don’t wait to contact us.
SHORT TERM CHARTER WITH SKIPPER
From the legendary Outremer 45 to the acclaimed Outremer 55, not to forget the 51 and the 4X, you will find a wide range of Outremer catamarans to charter, depending on your model of interest.
Toby Hodges and François Tregouet consider the best bluewater multihulls and look at the options for sailing the oceans in spacious comfort
What are the best bluewater multihulls for long term cruising? The one you own, or the one you can afford is the simple answer.
There is a wealth of proven designs to suit bluewater sailing and a variety of budgets. While we have focussed here on the best bluewater multihulls in production, we’ve also included some cracking pedigree multihulls which tour the planet and might occasionally pop up on the brokerage market.
If you can afford to, then pushing towards the 45-50ft length will buy you space, pace and that extra payload capacity needed to take all the items you’d want on your home afloat.
When looking at the best bluewater multihulls, the choice will come down to that perennial balance between comfort/space and speed/weight. Choosing a lighter weight performance design will obviously help you cover distance voyages more rapidly and potentially allow you to outrun weather systems. It means you can sail faster, with less sail up and less load and stress. But you’ll have to sacrifice some luxuries and need to be quite scrupulous about keeping weight down and centralised in order to maintain high average speeds.
For the majority of cruisers, however, it is the amount of space multihulls offer once you’ve reached your destination that really appeals. As well as the non-heeling living area and real estate they provide, they’re well suited to typical tradewind sailing .
If you’re considering your first or next multihull, we hope the following will serve as a taster.
Outremer 51/55.
When you think of multihulls designed for bluewater cruising, Outremer will likely be one of the first names that comes to mind. Its heritage lies in building catamarans that can sail fast and are built strong enough to do laps of the globe.
The 51, the current version of which launched three years ago, is an archetypal example of what to look for in terms of blending speed and space is a dream design for a family circumnavigation.
The French yard’s new 55ft VPLP design may look boldly different from its past models, but the philosophy behind it remains the same. It is designed to match windspeed up to 12 knots and Outremer reasons that its ability to sail in 5 knots of breeze will allow it to sail for 95% of the time on a circumnavigation.
Read more about the Outremer 51 and Outremer 55.
Photo: Diego Yriarte
For nearly four decades the Australian Seawind brand and its founder Richard Ward have been gearing catamarans around safe bluewater sailing, including performance, protection and ease of handling. Its Reichel Pugh-designed 1600, which launched three years ago, is an elegant looking cat with relatively low, long lines and some smart solutions for fast bluewater sailing.
Seawind also launches its new 1370 later this year, a staggering 60 of which have sold on plans alone.
This first 50 is built from a composite sandwich of basalt fibre, a cloth made from volcanic rock, and PET foam from recycled plastic bottles, which helps to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 50% when compared with traditional glassfibre methods.
This new 50 footer is perhaps a more appealing and practical prospect than Rapido’s previous 60 (with its significant fixed beam), particularly as the amas on this new model can fold to reduce beam to 18ft.
Infused carbon foam sandwich construction is used, along with beams, daggerboards and rudder in pre-preg carbon to keep displacement to 8,200kg.
Read more about the Rapido 50
This OC50 is designed as a more affordable cruising alternative, than the HH models which have preceeded it. This model targets ocean sailing.
It’s still stiffened and strengthened by carbon, but built in vinylester composites with a gelcoat finish. This adds an additional 300kg or so over a full carbon HH50, but cost savings are in the region of $400,000.
Read more about the HH OC50
The 526 launched four years ago, designed to suit short-handed sailors and families looking to sail long distances, hence it can carry large payloads and promises easy maintenance. It looks good too.
Berman’s Versahelm design is a key feature. The wheel cantilevers, allowing the helmsman to steer from outboard with clear sightlines or from the hardtop protection of the aft cockpit.
Photo: Christopher White
The A47 suits short-handed fast ocean sailing at an approachable size. Lengthening it to 49ft allowed for an aft cockpit. It is available as a sloop or with White’s patented MastFoil ketch rig – rotating aerofoil masts designed for easy short-handed cruising without sacrificing performance.
Read more about the Atlantic 47
A combination of sharp design from François Perus and high build quality brings plenty of appeal to this sporty Italian-built cat. The first example launched three years ago with a light displacement of 10.5 tonnes, thanks to an E-glass epoxy-infused build with carbon strengthening. The yard offers semi-custom construction and full hybrid packages.
Catana’s performance model from 2017, sports twin aft helms (which may not suit ocean sailors), reverse bows and carbon daggerboards. The high topsides help create good bridgedeck clearance and plenty of accommodation. Its new Ocean Class 50 seems more in the shipyard’s bluewater DNA. The light weight, and dynamic and modern shape with slim hulls and a relatively short nacelle suggests a seaworthy nature and high speeds.
Read more about the Catana 53
Veteran multihull designers Morrelli & Melvin designed this smaller model for the Gunboat range. It was built to be more manageable for an owner-driver yet still capable of up to 300-400 mile days.
The Gunboat 48 is something of a rare breed, just six 48s were built between 2004 and 2009. Oh, to have a spare €1.3m right now… one of them is actually on the market.
Read more about the Gunboat 48
At the start of the Millennium, Catana offered fully equipped boats as standard for long distance cruising. The Catana 471 or 472 (one or two helms respectively), represented at the time the optimum in ocean-going catamarans.
Tony Grainger has been drawing fast multihulls for 35 years, including racing trimarans and the Lightwave and Chincogan cruisers. The popular Lightwave 38 has admirable performance and comfort, and the Chincogan 52 (pictured) has the length to clock high average speeds.
With its characteristic roof, narrow hulls and daggerboards, the Outremer 45 is a standout design which has become somewhat iconic. Despite a rather spartan interior, it has been a great success with fast cruising enthusiasts. On board, family ocean crossings at an average of 10 knots are the norm.
Photo: Nicolas Claris
The Lagoon 450 remains the most popular model in Lagoons already popular range. It exemplifies the VPLP/Nauta design partnership which has made these the very definition of modern mid-size cruising catamarans which can appeal to families and charterers alike.
Indeed the 450 marked the modern look of Lagoon and was the first with interior styling from Nauta. It originally launched over a decade ago as a flybridge design with central helming position (450F), before this ‘sport top’ option (450S) was offered with a starboard helm station and lower boom.
Read more about the Lagoon 450
Photo: Guilain Grenier
The 47 has a modern shape, with straight bows and a reverse sheer line. It incorporates significant volume in the hulls below the bridgedeck to create room for the optional athwartships cabins. Cabin space is a prime selling point, particularly the owner’s suite to port, where there is also abundant natural light and headroom.
Photo: Tui Marine
Leopard Catamarans, together with designer Simonis Voogd and builder Robertson and Caine, produce the archetypal dual-purpose owner-operator or charter boat in their modern catamaran range.
Key features of the 45 are the amount of light in the saloon and the incredible volume and space on offer in the cabins above the relatively narrow waterlines. Vast social living areas include the flybridge, saloon and dual cockpits.
Read more about the Leopard 45
Photo: www.jfromero.fr
During the 1990s and noughties Nautitech earned a good reputation for its elegant catamarans. The 441 is a timeless example and the 44 can be credited with the ongoing trend in hardtop biminis. While its acquisition by Bavaria seven years ago helped Nautitech implement industrial build techniques, the French brand has retained its DNA at its Rochefort sur Mer yard.
The modern Marc Lombard designs have tall rigs with generous square-top mainsails. Twin wheels in the aft quarters of the Open 46 offer a direct feel on the helm, however those spending long periods in the tropics may prefer the shade of the bimini-equipped flybridge option. The layout is also open, with a saloon more outside than in. Styling is clean, modern and simple, and the standard of build and finish are good.
Photo: Olivier Blanchet
First impressions of the Neel 51 are sure to centre on its sheer size and space inside. But as you’ll see from our review of the Neel 43 on page 83, when you sail one overriding impressions quickly centre on its performance.
These trimarans are becoming a popular mass production-built option.
Photo: Christophe Launay
The Excess 11 packs plenty of potential as the smallest yacht offered by the big production yards. A little like the Lagoon 380 of old, it presents a good value new entry-level boat for genuine cruising in a more sporty, modern and enticing design. Some may argue against aft helms for ocean sailing, but those coming from monohulls will appreciate the more direct steering they offer.
Broadblue is a UK brand which offers a distinct line of cruising and Rapier performance catamarans. Its staple 385 packs a lot of cruising comfort into its length, including generous tankage, and has been sailed all over the world. Broadblue built its first electric drive catamaran 12 years ago and offers the only all-electric production sailing catamaran under 40ft in Europe.
Photo: Christophe Breschi
For those looking for maximum volume within 40ft, it’ll be hard to beat the Catspace – although it is more of a holiday apartment than a traditional bluewater cruiser. Bali’s garage style sliding aft door does help offer an enormous amount of enclosed (or open) living space.
Photo: Nico Krauss
The 510 is designed to take a serious amount of cruising gear – up to six tonnes of it in fact. The excellent helm station now has a fixed windscreen and all lines lead to hand. Finish quality including the electrical installation is first class and Privilege’s trademark, an admirable full beam (26ft) forward cabin, is sumptuous.
Photo: Jérôme Houyvet
Garcia Yachts has cornered the market for series-built aluminium monohulls and multihulls in the last decade and this new Explocat 52 is sparking real interest. We ran a full test report in our February issue, describing it as a go-anywhere cat with an enticing combination of space, pace and rugged construction.
Read our review of the Garcia Explocat 52
Built in Argentina, the Antares 44 is the ultimate evolution of a model launched 21 years ago. Entirely dedicated to bluewater cruising, it is the yard’s only model and is constantly being improved according to owner feedback.
Time seems to have no hold on this boatyard and, against the trend, the standard equipment of the Antares 44 is extremely complete
Photo: Richard Langdon
This luxury Bill Dixon design may be a decade old now and into its third iteration, but the concept behind its original appeal remains. For those used to sailing high-end thoroughbred monohulls, here is an option to consider for a comparative level of build quality and fit out when moving to a multihull.
Read more about the Discovery Bluewater 50
With this latest version of its original model, this experienced South African builder has optimised a catamaran cut out for the unforgiving seas of the Indian Ocean and the South Atlantic. The MKII allows for an increased load capacity, an important point in long distance cruising.
Intelligent features on the X5 include the protected helm station with glass windscreen, integrated rainwater catcher, UV-protective glass and generous tankage.
Mcconaghy mc52.
The MC50 (now MC52) was the first and promises some high speed sailing, but it’s the open plan main living deck which will attract the majority. It incorporates an intelligent centreboard system, which hardly affects interior space, but arguably its exposed helms at the aft end of the flybridge will not suit serious ocean cruising.
Photo: Florian H. Talles
HH in Xiamen is building some really impressive large, luxury fast cats up to 90ft. This was its second model to launch, a high-end, high performance Morelli & Melvin design capable of rapid passagemaking speeds and enjoyable regatta sailing. Features include C-shaped boards and central or aft helms.
Photo: Mike Jones/Waterline Media
If Nautor’s Swan made catamarans, they may look like this… The Ocean Explorer 60 uses the same designer in German Frers and some of the same builders who worked at the famous Finnish yard to produce this world cruiser. The resultant quality shines through. A new OE72 is due soon.
A young company with plenty of experience, Kinetic produces custom fast ocean cruisers, which can occasionally race. Its 62 is a serious performance vessel with carbon hulls, rigs and rigging, daggerboards or centreboards. With fast bluewater cruising the goal, carbon is used to minimise weight so features/toys can still be added. The swim platform and hardware on the newly launched 54 weighs just 90kg, and the generous sized tanks are all in carbon too. Views from the saloon and forward cockpit also look special.
Marsaudon ts4/orc 42.
Few catamaran builders produce genuine performance cruisers at this ‘smaller’ size: this one is kept minimalist and light weight (around 6 tonnes) – the yard’s philosophy is ‘simplicity, then add lightness.’ The 42 is a cruiser-racer with the ability to outpace most yachts across the Atlantic, win a regatta and still offer some space for island hopping. Standard tankage is minimal however. Marsaudon recently rebranded its TS range to Ocean Rider Catamarans (ORCs) and has an ORC 57 in build.
Dazcat builds fast, seaworthy cats from its Multihull Centre in Cornwall. The 1495 is a true ocean cruiser-racer, which is stiff and rewarding to sail, with direct steering linked to carbon rudders. The 1495 can hit 20+ knot speeds with relative ease, but it is the consistent high average speeds which will attract those looking to cover serious miles. Weight is centralised including engines, tanks, and systems all located amidships to help reduce pitching. Dazcat has a semi-custom build approach and creates all sorts of weird and wonderful craft for all abilities.
Dragonfly trimarans are known for their high quality construction and ability to delight sailors with their ease of planing speeds. For those who can live without the space of similar length cats, the new flagship 40 is large enough to offer cruising space, while folding outriggers and retractable appendages mean you can dry out where others wouldn’t dare.
These two designs by Erik Lerouge both offer a high-performance vision of ocean cruising. The Loopings were built individually and the Freydis in small series, and on both you can sail as fast as the wind in complete safety. Interior quality depends on whether finished by an amateur or by a shipyard.
An attractive combination of luxury, comfort and performance, the S48 is a stiff, go-anywhere premium cat that is easy to manage single-handed. The lightweight build (11t) is in epoxy infusion with carbon reinforcement.
Jeff Schionning has catamaran design in his blood. His designs exude performance and seaworthiness with flowing, even aerodynamic lines. On all tradewind routes you’ll find a G-Force (models from 12m to 23m) or an Arrow (12m to 15m) sailing more quickly than the rest. His latest venture is with Current Marine in Knysna, South Africa.
The long-time best-seller from the world leader in catamarans, with more than 1,000 produced over almost 20 years from 1999. With its characteristic vertical windows, the 380 and its big brother the 410 made the purists scream when they were presented. But the 380 proved a pioneer of its kind. Safe bow volumes and light displacement (7,260 kg) helped its seaworthy behaviour. The high number of boats on the market makes this the most affordable bluewater cruising multihull for its size, even if price range is as wide as condition is variable.
Between 44ft and 46ft depending on the year of construction and the length of its transoms, the Casamance was an impressive catamaran on launch in 1985. The design by Joubert/Nivelt offered good volume and load capacity. Of the 490 units produced, many joined the charter fleets. The exterior of the Casamance is dated, but the interior in grey ceruse oak has retained plenty of charm.
Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.
Mark Rolle envisioned a life on the sea and when the opportunity presented itself he didn’t hold back.
After working hard for years Mark sold his business and decided that there was more to life than work. He always thought of owning a boat, he had always loved the ocean and when the opportunity presented itself he took it.
When looking for his dream vessel he really wanted it to be his mobile home, something he could live comfortably onboard. Being a practical person he was also looking for something he could comfortably manage single handed and also perform well, for him, Lagoon ticked all the boxes. He was originally looking for a 440 or 450 but he was impatient and there were none on the market at the time. After stepping aboard the Lagoon 500 he immediately made an offer. He spoke of his instant excitement when he first saw Three Little Birds and thinking, “ Wow, that’s a lot of boat” .
Since then he has been travelling the East Coast of Australia and the Pacific, only spending a handful of nights off the boat in the last 4 years. In April 2017 Mark and Three Little Birds were in a game of cat and mouse trying to outfox Cyclone Debbie. He was in Airlie Beach at what is now Coral Sea Marina when she hit and fortunately dodged a bullet with only minor superficial damage.
Mark spends a lot of his time in the Whitsundays, hosting International backpackers in return for cleaning and polishing of his Lagoon 500. However, a huge goal of his was to do some blue water cruising and so he took off with the 2019 Go East Rally to New Caledonia and Vanuatu which was a huge accomplishment and an opportunity to meet many amazing people.
This video will show why sailing your Lagoon to these destinations is so rewarding.
Prior to owning his Lagoon, Mark only had sailing experience from his childhood, sailing Manly Juniors. He knew only a little about tides, trade winds and currents. For much of his initial cruising he was constantly sailing against the weather, trade winds and struggled with light downwind conditions and booms swaying and banging. This resulted in more motoring than he preferred during such downwind conditions
It wasn’t until his trip back from the Pacific that he became determined to find a solution to his problems and get himself a single handled spinnaker set up. After a lot of research Mark rigged his Lagoon 500 to be able to single handed fly an off the shelf Rolly Tasker Asymmetric Spinnaker and says it has been great and was impressed by the price.
(Watch his video on the set up).
“Deploying it is easy, the sock slides straight up, in light winds this is really easy. I’ve led all the rigging back to the cockpit and I’ve put a trip line to release the tack quickly if de powering the sail instantly is required.
Pulling the sail down is not a problem, in the light winds it’s just a matter of pulling the sock straight down. In the heavier winds we’ve got the Tylasker fitting and we punch the tack off and it streams the sail away like a big flag taking all pressure off, then slide the sock down and pack it away.”
After travelling downwind with a NE 10-15kt breeze from the Gold Coast to Sydney in 49 hours and with an average speed of 8.2kts with just the Spinnaker, and a heap of extra sleep due to the new found silence, Mark is a strong advocate for the spinnaker and wants people to know how easy it is to use single or short-handed and to not be intimidated. After doing a Facebook pole of Lagoon owners he discovered that of those who have a spinnaker only about 30% use it regularly, mostly due to a lack of confidence, particularly deploying and retrieving. Although it is important to have the correct set up and security measures he wants everyone to know that this downwind sail has seriously changed his sailing experience for the better and after a bit of practise using it you develop a lot of confidence quickly.
Mark has also made a number of other improvements to his vessel since purchasing it second hand, including a set of folding propellers and new sails. His old sails were unable to perform well under 60 degrees to the apparent wind and now he is able to comfortably sit between 35-45 degrees and get close to 8kts boat speed in 15kt of apparent winds.
For now, Mark has no fixed sailing goals other than returning to Vanuatu and New Caledonia when borders open and is just drifting with the wind. He is currently in isolation in the Whitsundays due to being in a high risk category and was floating between Pancake Creek and Lady Musgrave the last few months waiting for restrictions to ease. Although he often has helpers on board from time to time he often spends long periods at sea by himself so things haven’t changed too much. He describes the Whitsundays at the moment as “like the 80s”, there are much less boats on the water and the radio has gone quiet. There is currently a lot more greenery and wildlife about. “It is the perfect way to isolate”.
His departing words were… “Enjoy life while you can because you just don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow.”
by Marnie Ebeling
Get an exclusive overview of the new Lagoon EIGHTY 2 in our interview with Rosalie Le Gall, Lagoon’s Product Director. Discover this luxury sailing catamaran’s sleek design, customisable spaces, and innovative features, perfect for comfort and adventure.
The PRESTIGE F5.7 represents the latest evolution in the third generation of F-Line, taking luxury cruising to new heights, with a focus on comfort, functionality, and design excellence. Let’s take a closer look.
Lagoon Catamarans, known as the market leader in blue water cruising vessels, has once again raised the bar with the all-new Lagoon 43. Let’s take an in-depth walkthrough and discover the features that set this new model apart.
You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.
Racing or Cruising? Maybe both. The Marsaudon Composites ORC50 (formerly the TS5 before the launch of their new brand: Ocean Rider Catamarans) sits at the very head of the performance cruising catamaran category, well proven as a racing machine at St Barths and appreciated as a world cruiser. Designed by fast cats supremo Christophe Barreau (who has a whole range of fast Catana Catamarans and a few Outremers in his design archive), they are among the fastest livable multihulls in the world (capable of 350+ miles a day). If you want to make that step up on performance, this cat should be on your shopping list.
Photos credit, Marsaudon Composites and Olivier Tisserant
A Cheetah The profile is muscular and sporty, with long, mean straight bows that instantly say “racing catamaran”. The angular coachroof gives owners plenty of space and panoramic allround views. With the coachroof set back, a high freeboard, and big inverted bows, she cuts through the sea quickly. Add a powerful 20m Lorima rotating carbon mast and sail plan and you begin to understand how she achieves such high speeds. I can only think of one other boat to take her on in an offshore race. Read our Dazcat 1495 review for more information on that one!
ORC50s are stiff, light machines that have been designed to get you places fast. They are pretty minimalist inside, but if you want a fast cruising cat which you can win the occasional race on, this boat is hard to catch on most points of sail if she is handled well. The weight clocks in at around 9 and a half tonnes – pretty impressive for a boat this size with such a powerful sail plan. That gives you an SA/D ratio up in the mid 30s, which is well into Gunboat territory. If you add all the carbon options on you´ll be able to reduce the weight by another tonne, but that requires deeper pockets.
Built for Speed Marsaudon Composites, from Lorient in Brittany, have quite a reputation in the offshore cruising and racing world. The ORC50 (TS5) is built using an infusion process in a female foam-glass-poly/vinylester sandwich mold, and carbon structural elements can be added to suit the owner´s requirments. So the aft beam and main bulkhead can be made in carbon as can the forward beam and the compression beam, for example.
The galley is L-shaped, with plenty of storage space. There´s a large L-shaped dining area that sits 6-8 people and a decent nav station. The general feeling is of a light, functional space that gives you the comfort you need without the weight.
The dining table in the Saloon is designed to be mobile and can slot out of its mountings and slot in to similar ones in the cockpit… thus saving the weight of a table aboard.
When we originally wrote this review, we had assumed that there was no table in the aft cockpit, but Marsaudon have corrected us on this point. I guess you can go for 2 tables if you are happy to carry the extra.
We love the skylight and down below you can choose between the 3 cabin owner´s version or the 4-cabin version which are home to pleasant, bright and wide spaces in the sleek hulls. The bunks measure 200 x 160 and the decor is warmer down here with wood-effect headlining panels. The big aft facing windows in the back cabins will grab your attention.
The heads and shower area is pretty cosy though!
The furniture is all foam cored to save weight.
If you have chosen some of the sportier options, this boat will fly. Well, it´ll fly without some of the sportier options, it´s just a case of the level of speed that you require. 25 knots in 28 knots of wind? It´s been done. 30 knots? In the right conditions, yes. The bottom line is that she´ll comfortably sit in the high teens and low 20s in the right conditions.
She Points High The ORC 50 comes loaded with daggerboards, so you´ll be beating into the wind at speed while minimising your leeway. The bucket seats, tiller steering option and big daggerboards are all geared up for people who love the thrill of sailing at speed.
This boat is all about fun on the water: sitting in those bucket seats on the windward side, over the side of the hull with the carbon tiller in hand flying along will give you a real buzz.
The speed log should frequently hit numbers very close to true wind speed and you´ll be sailing up to 30 to apparent, and she can pinch even further.
This speed machine won´t suit everyone of course- it´s designed for experienced sailors who want maximum fun out on the water and who want to reach their destination fast. She´s pretty minimalist (there is no table in the cockpit for example), but if it´s a super-charged, finely balanced, seaworthy catamaran you´re after, this could be it.
Where is the Marsaudon Composites ORC50 (TS5) made? The company is based in L´Orient in Brittany, France, in the old submarine base.
Why is the company called Marsaudon Composites? The company was started in 1999 by Samuel Marsaudon. The composites refers to their skill in producing strong lightweight structures for racing and their production cats.
What Boats are they Famous For? Marsaudon are behind IDEC 2, the holder of the Single handed Around the World record, and Prince de Bretagne, winner of the Route du Rhum 2010 in the 50’ class.
How much are Marsaudon Composites ORC50s (TS5s)? What´s their price? Dependent on options, but these boats are pretty good value for money for this type of yacht: approximately €650k before tax. Options include: rotating carbon mast with fiber rigging: 80k, fiber standing rigging for aluminum mast: 10k, carbon cross (forward beam and compression beam): 28k, mast bulkhead and aft beam in carbon: 20k, carbon daggerboards: 12k, electronics pack: 18k, 4x160W solar panels + davits: 10k, watermaker: 14k, deck hardware for gennaker: 4k.
There are plenty of other options of course! As with all boats, good luck on sticking to the standard configuration when they start tempting you with all of the extras 😉
Technical specification.
D/L | 68 |
---|---|
Mainsail | 88 m² /947 sq ft |
SA/D | 34 |
Power | 2x40HP |
Water | 2 x 200 L / 2 x 53 gal |
Draft (Boards up) | 1.7m / 5' 7" |
Draft (Boards Down) | 2.7 m / 8' 10" |
Genoa | 60 m² / 646 sq ft |
Length | 15.24m / 50' |
Beam | 8.6m / 28' 2.6" |
Diesel | 2 x 110 L / 2 x 29 gal |
SA/D* | 34 |
Light Disp. | 9.4 tonnes / 20,723 lbs |
Disp. Max | 13 tonnes / 28,660 lbs |
Air Draft | 23.05m / 75' 7.5" |
Share your details with us and we’ll be in touch to discuss further.
" * " indicates required fields
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.
More information about our Cookie Policy
The Rapier 400 redefines the fast cruising catamaran.
Family cruising and performance sailing combined in one single handed capable fast catamaran.
A boat designed as a safe family cruiser with all the speed and excitement of a pure-bred racer. Ultra modern lightweight composite construction with a high performance rig gives the sailing excitement we all crave.
The Rapier 400’s sea keeping capabilities and trademark Broadblue single saloon and cockpit configuration make it a great space for all the family.
The Rapier 400 is available in two versions. The short roof version has an open helm position, with the galley below or ‘down’ in the port hull. The long roof version has a fully enclosed helm position with the galley on the bridge deck. See the link below for an illustrative photo gallery.
In the realm of sailing, the Leopard Catamaran represents the pinnacle of design, seamlessly merging an interior of understated elegance and sophistication with unmatched performance. A true testament to engineering excellence, our vessels strike the perfect balance between the airiness of cabin space and speed, offering the owner the best of both worlds. With stepped hulls and a potent rig featuring an overlapping genoa, these masterpieces exhibit superior performance across all conditions.
In restless seas, our vessels remain steadfast, boasting a protected helm station meticulously crafted for offshore single - handed sailing, allowing you to take on the elements with confidence. Our commitment to innovation doesn’t stop there; boats greater than 42 feet feature forward doors and cockpits, providing an additional dimension to the maritime experience. Plus, we understand that the journey is as important as the destination, which is why we’ve incorporated a lounge for added social ambiance.
Durable and built for blue water adventures, Leopard Catamarans ensure your comfort both at sea and at anchor. Maintenance becomes a breeze with our researched design, offering more time on the water and less in the shop. With the helm station strategically positioned for optimum stability and protection, you’re not just sailing on a Leopard catamaran; you’re commanding the sea with unwavering confidence.
Stepped hulls
Reliability
Safe & Seaworthy Catamarans
Comprehensive Power, Service and Financial Security from One Company
Ease of Maintenance
Leopard, the definitive name in power catamarans, reshapes the very ess ence of efficiency and sophistication. Each vessel is a masterpiece of engineering, striking the perfect equilibrium between understated elegance of the interior space, exhilarating speed, and impeccable fuel efficiency. These vessels are not merely built , they are engineered for the ocean, ready to conquer even the most challenging conditions.
The spacious and luxuriously comfortable flybridge offers the perfect vantage point to take in breathtaking vistas and navigate the seas with ease. The inclusion of a forward door not only enhances ventilation and visibility but also offers convenient access to the foredeck. Maintenance becomes a seamless endeavor, granting the owner more time to spend on the open water. Both inside and out, our catamarans embody a modern design that sets the industry standard. Maneuvering these powerhouses for single - handed operation is a breeze, thanks to their user - friendly design. As the world leader in power catamarans, Leopard proudly maintains its reputation for excellence. Our helm stations, positioned for maximum protection, offer a superior level of comfort and safety, making each journey not just remarkable, but truly exceptional.
Engine rooms, learn more about us, robertson & caine, about leopard catamarans.
Evolving from 50 years of customer feedback, Leopard Catamarans has pooled their expertise with builders Robertson and Caine to design today’s Leopard range: spacious, robust, performance-driven blue water cruising catamarans.
©2024 Leopard Catamarans. All Rights Reserved
The dream of sailing across the open sea, with the horizon as your destination, has captivated many. But when it comes to handling a catamaran, the question often arises: Can one person operate a catamaran? This comprehensive guide explores the realities and challenges of single-handed catamaran sailing, especially for those considering a yacht for rent in Croatia .
Understanding the basics of catamaran handling.
Operating a catamaran solo requires a deep understanding of the vessel’s mechanics and sailing dynamics. Catamarans, known for their stability and speed, present unique challenges and advantages for the solo sailor.
Solo sailing a catamaran demands a range of skills, from navigation and weather forecasting to sail handling and emergency preparedness. It’s a test of both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Managing the vessel alone.
The primary challenge of single-handed sailing is managing the vessel’s operations alone. This includes everything from setting sails to anchoring, all while maintaining a constant watch for changes in weather and sea conditions.
Safety is a paramount concern when operating a catamaran alone. One must be prepared for any situation, from minor repairs to medical emergencies, understanding that assistance may not always be readily available.
Can One Person Operate A Catamaran 1
Essential training and experience.
Before embarking on a solo catamaran journey, acquiring the necessary training and experience is crucial. This might involve advanced sailing courses, gaining experience in different sea conditions, and familiarizing oneself with the specific catamaran model.
A well-equipped catamaran is key to successful solo sailing. This includes having the latest navigation tools, communication devices, and safety equipment. Ensuring that the catamaran is in top condition is essential for a safe journey.
Embarking on a solo sailing journey on a catamaran is both an exhilarating and demanding experience. This section delves into the specific skills needed for successful single-handed sailing, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey, particularly for those venturing into the beautiful waters of Croatia.
Navigational skills for the solo sailor.
Effective navigation is crucial for single-handed sailing. This involves not only understanding charts and GPS systems but also developing an intuition for reading the sea and weather patterns. A solo sailor must be adept at making quick and informed decisions to ensure safe passage.
Managing the sails single-handedly requires skill and practice. Solo sailors must be familiar with their catamaran’s rigging and sail systems and proficient in techniques for raising, lowering, and adjusting sails efficiently and safely.
Can One Person Operate A Catamaran 2
Planning and preparing for the journey.
Preparation is key to successful solo sailing. This includes creating a detailed itinerary, as seen on Catamaran Croatia Charter , and preparing contingency plans for unexpected situations. A thorough understanding of the catamaran’s capabilities and limitations is essential.
Modern catamarans are often equipped with autopilot systems and other technologies that aid in solo sailing. Utilizing these tools effectively can significantly ease the burden of handling the boat alone, especially during longer passages.
Prioritizing safety on board.
Safety must be the top priority for anyone operating a catamaran alone. This includes having a well-thought-out safety protocol, regular maintenance checks, and ensuring all safety equipment is easily accessible and in working order.
Solo sailors must be prepared for emergencies, from medical issues to mechanical failures. This involves having a comprehensive first-aid kit, understanding basic repair techniques, and being able to send distress signals if needed.
Solo sailing a catamaran is as much about the sailor’s mindset and personal skills as it is about technical sailing abilities. This final part of our guide discusses the essential personal qualities needed for solo sailing and the profound experiences it offers.
Resilience and self-reliance.
The cornerstone of successful solo sailing is the ability to be resilient and self-reliant. Facing the open sea alone requires mental fortitude, the capacity to handle unexpected challenges independently, and confidence in one’s own decision-making abilities.
The sea is ever-changing, and a solo sailor must be adaptable, able to think quickly and respond effectively to changing conditions. This agility ensures not only the safety of the voyage but also enhances the overall sailing experience.
Can One Person Operate A Catamaran 3
Experiencing ultimate freedom and tranquility.
Solo sailing on a catamaran offers an unparalleled sense of freedom. The tranquility of being at sea alone, surrounded by the natural beauty of the ocean, provides a unique opportunity for introspection and connection with nature.
Completing a solo sailing journey is a significant personal achievement. It instills a sense of accomplishment and confidence that extends beyond sailing, enriching one’s life perspective and personal growth.
Embracing the challenge with confidence.
While solo catamaran sailing presents challenges, embracing these with confidence and preparation can lead to one of the most rewarding experiences. It’s about balancing respect for the sea with the joy of navigating it on one’s own terms.
For those considering a yacht for rent in Croatia , solo sailing a catamaran offers a unique way to explore the stunning Croatian coastline. From serene beaches to hidden coves, the journey is as mesmerizing as the destination.
In summary, solo sailing a catamaran is an enriching experience that combines the thrill of independence with the serenity of the sea. It requires a blend of technical skills, personal resilience, and a deep appreciation for the maritime world. For anyone seeking a unique and profound sailing experience, single-handedly piloting a catamaran, especially in the captivating waters of Croatia, is an adventure worth pursuing.
The ultimate guide to sailing south dalmatia nedovrseno.
Real Time Availability
Secure Booking Service
No Cost Reservation
Useful sailing links, secure payments handled by.
Verified Website
HEAD OFFICE Cusmanich LTD Vrboran 37 21000 Split, Croatia
FLEET OFFICE Grabova 21b 21000 Split, Croatia
+385 21 55 33 01 +385 91 3000 009 +385 98 360 398
USA: +1 646 661 2851 United Kingdom: +44 203 318 2329
HEAD OFFICE Cusmanich LTD Vrboran 37 21000 Split, Croatia FLEET OFFICE Grabova 21b 21000 Split, Croatia
We are professional charter company specialized in renting catamarans. Our story began in 2004, to address the need for specialized catamaran charter company in Croatia .
+385 98 360 398.
World champion, lighter = better, craftsmanship, meet the foiling f1x a-class catamaran.
This is the ultimate singlehanded foiling catamaran of the moment: ultramodern, incredibly fast, very agile, extremely strong and feather-light, in an aerodynamic and ergonomic design. The perfect total package, packed in 1 foiling catamaran. This is the world’s coolest boat for singlehanded races and the winner of several A-cat world championships and many other sailing races.
The 2020-F1x A-cat is exactly the same foiling catamaran that made Mischa Heemskerk Vice-World Champion at the Herveybay Worlds 2018 in Australia and World Champion at Weymouth 2019. All our foiling F1x A-class catamarans come straight, ready to race and ‘Mischa-tuned’ from our factory.
The F1x A-class foiling catamaran is the ultimate reflection of our current design language. The aerodynamic design accentuates the performance qualities of this super fast foiling racing boat. The sophisticated deck plan provides clear control and minimal air resistance.
Foils The rudders and daggerboard foils used on the F1x A-class foiling catamarans are produced with the highest quality carbon pre-preg fibers. The foils are cured in our own Autoclave . Our winning foil design was created in close cooperation with Glenn Ashby and the designers of AC Team New Zealand .
Construction The F1x A-cat is manufactured entirely according to the carbon pre-preg/ Nomex production method, and cured in our Autoclave. This technology is the same as used in the aerospace industry and within other foiling boats like for example, the America’s Cup.
Design The design of the F1x foiling A-class catamaran was completely conceived by the DNA design team and made at DNA’s own yard. In the DNA design team Pieterjan Dwarshuis, Mischa Heemskerk and the renowned Dutch industrial design engineer Rudo Enserink worked closely together to create the perfect foiling A-class catamaran.
Technical details.
The F1x A-class foiling catamaran has a number of unique features that improve performance. For example:
LOA: 5.49 m BOA: 2.30 m Max. draught: 1.20 m Sail area: 13.94 m Total weight: ca. 53 kg Top speed: 31 kn Extra: All measurements according to IACA Class regulations.
Are you excited to buy a F1x A-class foiling catamaran from DNA Performance Sailing? Please fill in our contact form:
Schrijf je in voor onze nieuwsbrief en blijf op de hoogte van de nieuwste ontwikkelingen.
lassen Sie sich über die neuesten Entwicklungen informieren!
blijf op de hoogte van de nieuwste ontwikkelingen!
Wij gebruiken cookies om u de beste online ervaring te bieden. Door akkoord te gaan, accepteert u het gebruik van cookies in overeenstemming met ons cookiebeleid.
Wanneer u een website bezoekt, kan deze informatie in uw browser opslaan of ophalen, meestal in de vorm van cookies. Beheer hier uw persoonlijke cookiediensten.
Best Single-Handed Bluewater Sailboats
Sailing alone in racing or time on the water is a great experience. Finding the best single-handed blue water sailboat for those needs can be a tough task.
Regardless if you have a cruiser or racing sailboat, a single-handed one can offer many opportunities versus larger boats. So what are some of the best ones on the market?
The Hunter Channel 31, J/109, and West Wight Potter 19 are great budget-friendly, single-handed sailboats. Moving up in price, you can look at Hanse 371, Jeanneau Sunfast 3200, and even a Dehler 29. Depending on the size and the amount of features it has will determine what they are worth.
While the budget will play a role in finding the right single-handed boat for you, there are plenty of other factors to consider. These range between comfort, stability, and useful features.
According to experts in sailing, most prefer comfort over price as long as it is justifiable with the amount you are paying. As long as it is not too far over your budget, you could consider a slightly higher-priced boat if it has a few more bells and whistles to make your life easier.
Table of contents
Whether you are planning to cruise around or going out for the day sailing, there are a handful of sailboats to consider. You want to choose one that is best operated alone and would not need additional hands to make it work.
{{boat-info="/boats/rs-sailing-rs-aero"}}
For a fun day out at sea, it is hard to pass up on a quality dinghy . This one, in comparison to other dinghies, is fairly light and takes hardly any time to set up.
The RS Aero is one of the more technologically advanced dinghies for one individual to use. This one in particular has amassed a handful of awards for the best performance overall.
Due to its popularity and quality, these range between $10,000 to $15,000. If you find it any cheaper than that, it could be worth the investment.
{{boat-info="/boats/beneteau-oceanis-yacht-62"}}
If you are feeling a bit adventurous or feel confident in your ability to handle a large boat by yourself, then try out the Beneteau Oceanis 62 . This boat is slightly over 60 feet, so it is recommended that you have all your ducks in a row before setting sail.
Thankfully, the boat was designed with ease of use in mind. So this could easily be operated by one person if they have some experience with it.
If you purchased this one for the family, then you can still have the added benefits of taking people with you. But if you decide you want to be by yourself, that is an option too.
This boat is valued around $600,000, so it is arguably one of the more expensive options for just a single handed sailboat. But if you are looking for a family boat, you are killing two birds with one stone.
{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-channel-31"}}
This British made sailboat debuted in 2001 with a twin keel, making it a great choice for solo sailing. While it has a rich history in racing, the design has gone through slight adjustments over the years to make it a solid cruiser.
With its incredible handling and quick turns, this sailboat has excellent handling. The hull structure allows it to have a low center of gravity and provide it with increased stability compared to other racing boats.
The deck layout, in combination of the self-tacking jib and tiller steering, allow this boat to be one of the best on the market if you can find it.
You can usually sail these fractionally rigged and reef with ease from the cockpit. For around $35,000, you are getting a great deal on a boat that has everything you need.
{{boat-info="/boats/j-boats-j109"}}
If you are not quite ready to venture out alone or want the availability to take people out with you, then the J/109 is a great sailboat to look into. These were first built in 2004, so you should be able to still find them today.
If you decide that you want to take it out by yourself, you could look into going offshore and into areas where other boats have difficulty reaching. You might be able to get it to plane on open water, but it is a little heavy.
With its asymmetric spinnaker, you should be able to jib from the cockpit with light wind. Even in heavier winds, this boat offers great stability.
Due to its high standards of construction and long term stability, these boats are still valued around $60,000. If you can find one a little less for that, it could be a steal.
{{boat-info="/boats/west-wight-potter-19"}}
This boat design has been around since 1979, which prioritized safety and handling. Those factors alone make it a quality solo handling boat.
This sailboat has grown on many over the last three decades. People have probably overlooked it due to its name, but you should definitely check it out if you find one.
The slight design changes over the years have turned this into a tough little boat. It has a Bermuda rigged sloop and can handle various conditions.
With its lifting keel, it allows it to navigate shallow waters. This boat might be one of the more versatile options out there if you plan on sailing in shoal drafts.
For the price, it is hard to beat something less than $10,000. If you are wanting a newer version with upgraded features, you could be spending around $25,000.
{{boat-info="/boats/hanse-371"}}
For a mid-sized cruiser, it will be hard to pass up a Hanse 371 if you come across it. This boat design is geared towards single handed sailing, with a perfect mix of older and newer technology.
It has a furlong and self-tacking jib, along with an autopilot feature making it easy to use for one person. For a boat that was built around 2000, it was well ahead of its time.
Even though the boat is a bit larger than some others for solo sailing, you will have plenty of space to move around. With the large galley and quite a bit of cabin room, you will feel like you are in a mansion.
The look and handle of this boat is favored by many, which is why it still holds its value. You can potentially find ones for sale around $60,000.
{{boat-info="/boats/jeanneau-sun-fast-3200"}}
From the first glance at this boat, you can see that it has a traditional look compared to other sailboats. Since it is smaller and lighter, it makes it easy to handle through many conditions.
The boat was originally designed to be a racer, so you have stability and strength in addition to speed. These were built around 2008, but still offer some of the best technology you will find today.
For space, you will have plenty of room just for yourself. There are two double cabins, galley, and a head compartment.
This fractional sloop, along with the keel, can provide easy sailing in either direction of the wind. You can comfortably have the mast around 60 percent to reach a comfortable speed.
This boat is still modern, so you will see these a little bit more often than some others. You will likely find them for about $160,000 but you get all of the latest technology and a boat that is built to last.
{{boat-info="/boats/tartan-3700"}}
The Tartan 3700 is another quality boat that you can live on and comfortably cross the sea with. Thanks to the self-tacking jib, it allows the boat to be used easily by one person.
This boat was originally designed in the 1970’s, but still has value today. It has been proven to be a great boat to cover long distances and with multiple people on board.
Even though this one might be a little bit older in comparison to other single handed boats, the price still ranges close to $150,000. Rest assured, there is still quality and reliability with this sailboat.
While this boat is not as popular in America, the Dehler 29 is a popular German sailboat. This boat is starting to become popular as more sailors look for single handed boats.
In 1998, this boat earned the honors for boat of the year and sailing boat of the year in the Cruising World Magazine. Since then, it still performs with quality since day one.
Since it is equipped with a tiller, you can steer this boat with ease. This offers one of the best opportunities to steer a boat without having to have an extra set of hands.
For the price, you can still find these on the market for slightly under $60,000. This is what you will pay for top quality German sailboats.
{{boat-info="/boats/oday-rhodes-19"}}
The Rhodes 19 is another classic style sailboat that many will gravitate to when they see it. Not only is it perfect for solo sailing, but you can have a few people on board if you enjoy family time.
The hull design is meant to be forgiving on the water, allowing it to easily handle heavier conditions. Since day one, this boat’s design has stood the test of time whether you are experienced or a newbie when it comes to sailing.
You can sprit rig this boat or simply use a Bermuda rig to help push you along with the wind. Since it has a low center of gravity, you do not have to worry about stability with this one.
Depending on your location, you can still find these for about $20,000. Assuming it is in good condition, you might find them slightly higher priced.
{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-flicka-20"}}
This boat has a strong history of solo sailing , simply because having more than one or two people would be uncomfortable. These were very common around the 1980’s and there were roughly 400 of these built. If you can find one that was built in the late 90’s, that would be your best bet.
The reason this boat deserves some attention is that you can potentially find it for a great price and live on it. This boat is also towable, making it easy to take with you no matter where you go. For just under $20,000, you can find plenty in good condition.
{{boat-info="/boats/vanguard-laser"}}
The Laser is a specific boat that you have probably seen in the Olympics. This small boat is simple and ready to go exploring for solo sailing.
This is arguably one of the most popular single handed boats out there. If you want the simplest option for sailing by yourself, look no further than a Laser.
This boat can use various rig types, so whichever method you prefer. Most use cat rigging since there is no headsail and just one mainsail. It also helps that this boat is easy to set up, making it desirable for solo handlers.
For the price point, you cannot beat $7,000 compared to other single handed boats. Due to its popularity and quality, you might have to pay a little more.
Solo sailing is an experience like no other and even replicates similar adrenaline rushes in other sports. If you are not seeking the thrill, there are boats drained to take it a little bit slower on the water.
Regardless of your skill level, you should consider the experience at least once in your life. The beautiful thing about this is, it does not have to be the perfect boat to get it done.
There are even plenty of sailors that have sailed on much larger boats or ones that were designed for more people. It all depends on the adventure you are trying to seek, but there is clearly not another like it when sailing on your own.
When solo sailing, there are plenty of features that can separate one boat from another. These can make a big difference in how your adventure goes for the day.
The conditions at sea are often unavoidable and something that everyone has to deal with. Whether you are solo saling or with a crew, everyone has to be aware of tough conditions.
If you sail alone, you are required to do everything in order to make it back safely. Having something with an automation system will be huge for solo sailors.
If you have a quality boat, the next best thing would be automation systems on board to help your life sailing much easier. Some of these systems include autopilot, electric windlass, roller furling, and even a radar.
Other sailors might want lines that run to the aft, a wind vane, or a hydraulic system for the bow or stern. Basically anything that you can do with a click of a button to reduce manual labor.
While this is an obvious option, you do not want to forget about stability. No matter how fast the boat is or how many cool features it has, those will be useless if you have issues with handling.
You want a boat that has wide beams and shorter waterlines. While this limits some speed, that is a much better trade off than having nothing at all.
When picking out your single handed sailboat, you want one that is easy to use. If there are too many features that are required to get it going, you either need more experience or that boat is not right for you.
Try finding one that only requires a few steps in comparison to other ones. You might have to pick one that is a bit smaller in order to get used to it all, which is all you really need since your are by yourself.
Many sailors will have their preferred sails when going out on the water. A unique sail design that you could look for is the Bermuda sail with a gaff sail.
This allows you to have more sail area on a shorter mast. It also allows you to have better control and less heeling force that is common for longer sails.
It does make sense to choose the one that is right for your boat and what is most comfortable to you. After you find the right boat for you, you should strongly consider the sails it has.
When it comes to solo sailing, the gaff rig is one of the best rig types. Even though the Bermuda is the most common, you lose some windward capabilities since it is lower.
The gaff rig makes the most sense because it is easier to use and has the best downwind performance. Each sailor will have their preferred rig type, but in solo sailing, the gaff stands out the best.
You do not have to break the bank when deciding what boat is best for solo sailing. There are boats that can fit within any budget, and you just have to know what you are looking for.
Just because a boat is priced over $100,000, does not guarantee that it is the best on the market. Depending on the brand, how many features it has, and how big the boat is will determine the price.
Some of the best single handed sailboats are priced less than $20,000. It all depends on the type of adventure you are seeking and how much money you are willing to spend.
Related Articles
Best Bluewater Pocket Sailboats
Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $100k
Best Bluewater Sailboats Under 24 Feet
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.
by this author
Best Sailboats
October 3, 2023
September 26, 2023
Important Legal Info
Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.
December 28, 2023
August 16, 2023
Elizabeth O'Malley
June 15, 2022
December 20, 2023
Your source for the latest news on yachts, boats and more. Read through our articles to find out how to compare boats and find the right fit for you!
Aug 22, 2023
less than a min
Embarking on a solo sailing adventure requires not only skill and preparation, but also the right vessel. Not all sailboats are equal when it comes to handling them single-handedly. Below, we'll explore some of the best options for single-handed sailing boats, focusing on their unique characteristics, strengths, and why they might be the perfect choice for your next solo voyage.
Engineered with meticulous precision, the Hanse 458 is an embodiment of masterful German craftsmanship, showcasing an optimal blend of performance and comfort. This sailboat's key advantage is its self-tacking jib and a fully automated sail handling system that enables smooth sailing single-handedly. The incorporation of a performance-oriented hull, large sail area, and unique rigging designs contribute to its excellent speed and agility. The Hanse 458's high degree of automation and efficient layout reduce the physical demands and decision-making load on the solo sailor, making it a well-suited companion for solo sailing adventures.
The Dufour 430 is a French sailboat designed with versatility and performance in mind. It has been acclaimed by many single-hand sailors due to its impressive balance of cruising comfort and easy handling. The vessel is equipped with a self-tacking jib and an intuitively positioned control panel in the cockpit for hassle-free manoeuvring and sailing. The spacious and luxurious interior design of the Dufour 430 ensures a comfortable stay onboard, making it ideal for extended solo voyages. Safety, seaworthiness, and a sense of freedom on the water make this French-built sailboat a top choice among single-handed sailors.
Emerging from the drawing boards of the reputed French yacht manufacturer Jeanneau, the Sun Odyssey 410 is a fine blend of innovation and simplicity. With features such as a walk-around deck and the award-winning inclined side decks, it brings an unprecedented level of convenience for solo sailors. Its balanced sail plan and hull shape, which capitalises on the latest advancements in naval architecture, ensure the vessel remains stable and easy to handle in varying conditions. These characteristics, combined with an ergonomic cockpit layout and a comprehensive set of navigational tools, make single-handed sailing on the Sun Odyssey 410 a joy rather than a challenge.
The Beneteau Oceanis 40.1, hailing from another celebrated French manufacturer, Beneteau, is designed for comfort, speed, and ease of handling. Its unique flared hull design significantly increases the interior space without compromising on performance. The yacht's rigging, centralised sail handling system, and an optional self-tacking jib make for straightforward single-handed sailing. Moreover, the spacious cockpit, equipped with dual helms, enhances manoeuvrability and vision, essential attributes for those sailing alone.
Built by the Slovenian shipyard Elan, the E6 model is an epitome of high-performance sailing and comfort. The use of Vacuum Assisted Infusion Lamination technology results in a strong, lightweight structure contributing to superior sailing efficiency and speed. The boat's deck layout is designed with single-handed sailing in mind, with all sail controls led back to the cockpit. The twin-wheel setup and a balanced rudder ensure precise steering in various sea conditions.
The Dehler 29, manufactured by the esteemed German brand Dehler, is a compact yet robust sailing yacht. Despite its relatively small size, it's equipped with an impressive set of features that facilitate solo sailing. Its fractional rig and self-tacking jib provide excellent performance and ease of handling. A meticulously designed cockpit and easily reachable sail controls further enhance the single-handed sailing experience. Moreover, its smart interior design makes efficient use of space, ensuring a comfortable stay onboard.
The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 490 is a modern performance cruiser that does not compromise on comfort and ease of handling. Its generous sail plan and balanced hull shape ensure fast passages, while the twin helm positions and all lines led aft to the cockpit allow for efficient single-handed control. The high-quality interior, filled with an abundance of natural light, provides a comfortable living space during long solo voyages.
The Oyster 565, produced by the prestigious British manufacturer Oyster Yachts, is an epitome of luxury and performance. Designed for blue-water cruising, it incorporates several features that make single-handed sailing possible. The boat's centre cockpit design, combined with in-mast furling and powered winches, ensures all controls are close at hand and easy to operate. The strong, seaworthy build of the Oyster 565 offers peace of mind for solo sailors when faced with challenging sea conditions.
Each of these boats has unique features that make them suitable for single-handed sailing. However, regardless of the boat you choose, good seamanship and a proper understanding of the boat's handling characteristics are crucial for a safe and enjoyable solo sailing experience. For those interested in exploring other options, our comprehensive boat database at TheBoatDB offers more selections from these boat manufacturers and other brands known for their high-quality sailboats.
Aug 24, 2022
Feb 10, 2023
Oct 04, 2021
Oct 01, 2021
We gave our Sailing writers one job: Find the best and most popular catamarans and review them.
Our review team always considers durability, price, quality, and value in their reviews.
A catamaran is a sailboat that has a multi-hull design. It gives it more stability because it’s wider and that creates more livable space for more people.
Read about the best multihull boats in this article and learn which one is best for your voyages.
The biggest advantages of a multihull are:
All the catamarans we've tested.
Lagoon Catamarans
Where to buy lagoon 40:.
Lagoon has always enjoyed a sweet spot in the 38 to 40-foot catamaran market. The Lagoon 380 became one of the most popular cats ever, with nearly 1,000 hulls being produced over a 20-year run. The L400 and L39 attempted to tweak that popular design, but neither caught on to the extent the 380 did.
The new Lagoon 40 is turning heads for many reasons. The Lagoon 380 is officially off the Lagoon website, so it might finally be time for the torch to be handed to a new cat. And the 40 has just the right mix of modern features, small size, and affordability that many cruisers and families seek.
Here’s a go-anywhere boat that looks good, sails easily, and keeps you comfortable.
Things we don't like:.
Leopard Catamarans
The Leopard 42 is the company’s replacement for the 40. It integrates several design elements that were proven on the new 50 and 45-foot models, including an upper lounge area atop the coachroof. The design also has the unique forward salon door that opens for direct access to the foredeck and a sun pad lounging area.
Like all Leopard catamarans, the 42 is not only comfortable to stay on, but it’s also fun to sail. All sailing controls lead to the compact helm. Everything can be handled from this one control station. The full-roach main and overlapping genoa provide plenty of power, and optional electric winches make sail handling a snap.
The Leopard 42 share company in the market for 42-foot cats with some very attractive boats–the Lagoon 42, the Bali 4.2, and the FP Astrea, to name a few.
Catamarans-Fountaine-Pajot.com
Fountaine Pajot, one of the foremost builders of sailing catamarans, unveiled their biggest “ Super Catamaran ” ever: the Thira 80.
The release comes on the tail of an ever-increasing trend in the catamaran market—the bigger-the- better era . With Sunreef, Lagoon, and Gunboat all making boats in the 70 to 80-foot range, these companies clearly see a market for the catamaran superyacht.
Boats this size are easily comparable to a motor yacht of more than 125 feet long. The very wide beam provides cavernous interiors for more livable space. And they have plenty of room for the toys of the trade—tenders, jet skis, paddleboards, and more.
While sailing is always preferable, its 175 to 300-horsepower engines are more than capable of moving it on calm days. And it’s hard to beat the ride and comfort of a catamaran at sea, with its extra stability and lack of heeling in the wind.
So, is bigger really better? Let’s dive in and tour the new Fountaine Pajot 80 and all that she has to offer.
Kinetic Catamarans
The Kinetic may be fresh on the scene of the Super Cats but it is on the cutting edge of the finest fast craft in terms of performance and latest technology while also having features, impeccable finishes and the amenities of stylish cruising.
This has been awarded the Cruising World Best Large Multihull 50ft and Above Boat of the Year 2022 as well as the Special Recognition Award – for Overall Excellence 2022 by Sailing Magazine. Said Gerry Douglas of Sailing Magazine: ‘This was the Tesla of sailboats…in terms of design and execution and technology, it hit all three of those marks. This boat is built without compromise’.
These catamarans are all-carbon construction, an aggressively lightweight construction and set up for short-handed sailing. Mast is coachroof mounted and there are options for centreboards and daggerboard. There are three steering stations (two outside aft on each hull, one inside right behind the working cockpit) to suit weather conditions and personal preference.
Xquisite Yachts
2022 saw the Xquisite X5 named the Cruising World magazine’s Best Cruising Catamaran of the year – yet again (it won the Best Multihull over 50ft award in 2017) .
As Ed Sherman said: ‘There are 40,000 man-hours invested in this boat. And you can see it.’ To the bolts that are torqued to the 2 weeks spent with each new owner training them on systems – this is a strong product, well designed by Rudolf Jonker and built by Phoenix Marine incorporating all of Tamas Hamor’s ideas and experience. This really is a well thought out 53 ft cruising sailboat and is another South African-built catamaran loaded with important details, not only the visible ones.
The goal for Xquisite is to supply fully equipped catamarans for long-term live-aboard cruising with comprehensive lifetime service assistance for the owners.
There are so many features from the gutters to catch rain-water on the coachroof to footswitches for the electric winches at the helm. Solid handrails all around the deck for maximum security to the below deck running-rigging network! In terms of the design and construction much thought has gone into weight saving. There is no faulting the systems installations.
All lines lead to the helm through below deck channels that are easily accessible with winches well thought out. The helm is slightly raised to port under a bimini with a sliding fully-battened canvas roof that is easily raised and lowered. There is an overall ambiance of space and light in the berths and galley which opens onto the cockpit.
Sailing performance was impressive with its powerful rig – however a heavy, low-slung cruising cat with keels instead of boards to get to your destination in comfort and style.
See our complete list of the best catamarans here .
McConaghy Boats
The MC60 is the fastest and most luxurious flybridge catamaran. ‘Think next-gen fighter jet meets a New York style luxury loft apartment.’
McConagy boats was founded by John McConaghy in 1967 and in 2000 Mark Evans & Jono Morris embraced the opportunity to take over the country. They partnered with Tiger Group Investments and have grown from strength to strength – building the world’s fastest racing yachts , submarines, components for Formula One racing and developing solutions for architects, scientists and others. They have a proven track record on complex composite products which are lightweight, corrosion resistant, have design flexibility, durability and high strength.
In the MC60, designed and engineered with safety as priority, this performance sailing meets stylish living with only finest wood veneers and luxurious materials throughout – the wide saloon which offers a versatile but spacious living area, large windows and retractable glass doors aft, a galley well positioned best suited to socialising. The attention is to detail and innovation even in the storage solutions so that living space is maximised with semi-customisation of interiors too. She is the perfect blend of sophistication and high tech.
Sailing is in utmost luxury, effortlessly and safely due to meticulous control of weight. She is much lighter than other similar length cats and can approach cruising speeds close to true wind. A professional crew are required. For sailing there are dual helm positions on the streamlined flybridge for best sight lines. The precise hull forms achieve optimum strength to weight ratio with careful use of carbon which means that under full sail she points upwind like a monohull. The M60 has push button centerboards that raise on impact automatically – certainly one of the safest offshore performance catamarans .
Sunreef Yachts
Winner in the 2019 Oceanway China Yachts Award, the 2019 Yacht and Aviation Awards and claiming Best of Show Award in the 2020 Miami International Boat Show this mighty fine catamaran justly deserves all and more. It is an all-round sailing leisure yacht for exclusive getaways, charter and transocean adventures and is set up for professional crew.
The Sunreef is built in Poland under management of Founder and CEO Francis Lapp who has been producing large vessels from 50-165 ft since 2002 and knows well what semi-custom cruising is all about.
The Sunreef 80 fuses contemporary design with its layout flowing easily one into another area in ultimate luxury. Custom finishes ensure that you have found your ultimate catamaran – the vast central lounging space with panoramic view opens both onto the bow and cockpit. The cleverly designed bridge deck and superstructure facilitates the superior comfort onboard.
The spacious 54sqm flybridge is the epitome of leisure – a jacuzzi, wet bar, barbecue and large sunpads with the main boom well clear overhead ! It also houses all the navigation. Plenty of relaxation and pleasure space.
The sail controls are well laid out for the twin helms with carbon masts built by Sunreef themselves. The rig is built for power on this well equipped and luxury sailing vessel.
The tall bow has a fine entry aimed at reducing drag while the hulls are designed to reduce drag too while having super volume to accommodate the luxurious cabins are airy and impeccable in style. The master cabin is located midships starboard and is an opulent space while the other cabins each have queen sized beds, spacious en-suites and unquestionable privacy.
HH Catamarans
The HH50 is a performance cruiser for the blue water with simple to use but intelligent systems, carbon construction and to top it all luxurious and spacious interior. She offers to best of all worlds – easy to manage sailing vessel which is robustly built, fully equipped and stylishly comfortable for your adventure.
The sailing systems and deck layout are designed for short-handed sailing with dual helm stations each giving the helmsman total sail control from either side and having excellent visibility. The C daggerboards are curved and are fully retractable. Push button mainsheet and self-tacking jib are standard. Equal-to-Wind speed is normal, this is a performance sailing vessel.
The large saloon has a good sized galley and when at anchor the sail handling area converts easily to a comfortable forward facing seating area. The aft cockpit has an integrated wet bar and barbeque – perfect for al fresco entertaining or dining. Luxury queen size beds await in the cabins.
Excess Catamarans
This gem earned the title of Cruising World’s Boat of the Year 2021 impressing the judges with its allocation of space all the while offering superior sailing performance. All at a great price.
Using compact space effectively – effectively and seamlessly assimilating working and social areas in a thoughtful, pleasant, workable and innovative way. This is a sure winner for the Excess 11.
The Excess 11 is one of the smallest catamarans as well as the only large-scale production boat of this size, with comfort, space and thrilling sailing. She is comfortable in her simplicity and light style. It is very capable for long passages and meets the needs for life on board, built on the experience of previous models and designs.
Even with her smaller size she offers comfort on deck with a large open cockpit and twin helm stations.
Complete Excess 11 standard features list please email via website
Bali Catamarans
The BALI Catspace is the most successful catamaran in her class with the Catspace being the smallest of the BALI range, combining all the latest innovations in cruising. It was nominated for the Cruising World’s best boat of the year: Catamaran under 50 ft, 2022.
The Catspace was conceived by Olivier Poncin & designed by Lasta Design – combining all the latest innovations in cruising into a really neat vessel.
The sailing quality is not to be faulted for a catamaran of this size, the deck which is efficient for sailing allows smooth movement from the aft platform to the forward cockpit with lounge and sunbathing area. There is, in addition a full-comfort flybridge which has a safe relaxation area and a helm station which is designed for single/short handed use.
The 4 cabins each have private heads and the ability to open up the back end of the cats to create the indoor/outdoor platform is well planned and highly effective.
Complete Catspace standard features list
Blue water sailing refers to the open sea. Non-blue or pond sailing refers to inland waters and coastal areas.
The difference in specific design of a blue water or non-blue water vessel is for the ship captain’s visibility as well as based on the hazards of the area they are to be used. A bluewater (offshore) catamaran is designed for voyages in very rough seas. They are usually 40ft or longer, designed to be very stable, carry heavy loads and very safe. Ocean sailing has different dangers to coastal water with different challenges – sailing through storms, longer distances, more maneuvering space, night sailing – and more gear, better technology, skills and sturdier vessels are needed.
When sailing in confined waters it is important to have more reactive steerage, less maneuvering time, you do not need to store multiday provisions as you are more reliant on daytime sailing, do not need so much speed so have smaller sails and lower horsepower engines and perhaps the intention if for pleasure alone so one of the major considerations will be the layout of the vessel.
For most sailors the choice of size is between 40-50 feet which is manageable for 2 persons with lots of room to spread out and entertain or have friends on board and that is easy to dock both in terms of space and cost.
First up consider these 5 points before you decide on your multihull model, length and manufacturer.
Will you be using your sailing vessel for coastal or blue water adventures? What is your primary objective and then: is this for family pleasure or entertaining or Charter?
For sailing
Must it be suited for single-handed sailing? What proficiency of sailing do I have/need? Degree of technology required? Equipment required?
Functional Use
How many berths do I need? How much privacy? Elegance, comfort and style – what is required? Space for ‘toys’? If for charter or private use with crew – extra berths.
Your total budget must include the initial cost of the vessel plus survey, transport, upgrading of equipment, insurance, etc – there is a lot to consider. Would a second hand vessel be a consideration? What is the smallest I can go?
Annual Costs
What will my ongoing budget be for Insurance, berthing, maintenance, repairs, haul out fees, etc? This excludes any travel costs
Where do I want to berth my vessel? Or living aboard?
It is said that BOAT is an acronym for: Break Out Another Thousand!
With cutting edge technology and the strive for sail performance this was no easy task – there are many deserving vessels who deserve to be in the Top Reviews such as Privilege 510, Outremer 51, Knysna 500SE and the St Francis 50. There are also other models by manufacturers we have selected that have proven themselves over the years that may be a better size for you.
Here’s our listing!
Read full review
Multihull vessels have a lot of the potential for creature comforts that motor yachts have without the constant thrumming of the engines. But they still require a modicum or rudimentary understanding of sailing.
There’s also a bit of maintenance required, but this is something–like having kids–that you figure out along the way.
Another popular boating segment is the power catamaran. Like their sailing counterparts, power catamaran boats have great living space, but without the need to understand sailing principles. Either way, both multihull markets look to be growing in popularity over the next many years.
The resale market for multihull ships also looks promising, so getting one, trying it out for a couple of seasons and selling it again is a possibility without losing too much on the purchase price.
So you’ve located some a catamaran for sale that looks promising. It’s one of the models on the list here and you’re wondering if its in the best shape relative to the price. Here’s what you do:
Take time out to go and view it in person. Book yourself an experience aboard and head over to your closest marina and speak to owners (this may well help you create your shortlist too). Consider these points before purchasing:
Check all necessary Stock is aboard – Sail away!
Some ideas for you –
Trimarans have limited space in slimmer hull designs generally. This makes Catamarans with their comfortable open leisure space both above and below deck far preferred for leisure sailing.
On the plus side for Trimarans are their speed and seaworthiness.
Probably a close second in terms of questions asked. On a twin hull design the buoyancy is on the outer edges of the boat and their is greater stability and less rolling when drifting or trolling compared to a monohull.
Catamarans are safe in rough seas because of their wide stance which makes them stable with increased motion comfort and excess buoyancy due to lack of ballast. They are easy to maneuver and with high speeds that may help them outrun storms with skilled crew who know the vessel. A trimaran is the safest of multihulls with the 3 hulls, centering of its weight and anti-drift plan. The righting torque between a catamaran and trimaran is significantly different.
An important consideration is this – if your catamaran is anything longer than 45ft, unless specifically modified for single handed sailing, then it probably cannot be sailed alone. At some stage in your journey you may well have to sail alone – can it be done?
Catamarans are more stable and fast and depending on conditions some can distance more than 200 miles in a day.
Cats usually sail faster than monohulls (standard) due to the weight of them and displacement, especially on a run or broad reach when the sails are perpendicular to the wind. There are many variables to consider.
Most small and medium-sized cruising catamarans can be sailed single-handedly. The skill of the sailor with high tech equipment such as electric winches and powered sail control, layout (such as all lines to the cockpit, roller furling mainsail, autopilot, etc) and safety precautions make it an adventure not to be missed.
If your catamaran is longer than 45ft, unless specifically modified for single-handed sailing, you will not be able to safely sail it alone. Consider:
It is a very personal choice but at the very least the advice would be to buy the smallest catamaran you think would meet your needs – this is because you have many other costs to consider and the bigger the vessel the more the costs of upkeep, dockage, space for crew.
A perfect size for blue water sailing (including around the world) is around 40 ft, small enough to be sailed by one person but big enough to provide safety and speed. The smallest size to consider to cross the ocean safely and in some comfort by consensus is around 30ft. Any smaller and you will possibly have the following problems as dealing with large seas the size of your vessel does count :
Multihulls best for ponds, slow rivers and calm bodies of inland water benefit from having flat hulls to provide shallow draft with great deck space manufactured from aluminium or fibreglass. Make sure you take extra food and water and all safety supplies just in case of an emergency!
There are many variables depending on your lifestyle, where you intend to cruise or berth and how much you want to travel aboard. A good estimate would be between US$2000-US$5000 per month for a family of 4, a little less for a couple/single person plus the maintenance cost of your boat which is on average 5-10% of the cost of the boat. The maintenance of your boat varies depending of equipment, age, condition and size.
Racing vessels are designed for speed and exhilaration and safe fun.
Living on-board requires space and comfort – space for storage, large-sized comfortable berths, living space, entertaining space, home-space! You need to know your long term goals and what your personal needs are – do you need a dedicated work area or desk space/permanent interconnectivity for work?
Generally cruising catamarans have wider hulls which give you more space as well as creating more drag which slows your boat down and is more costly on fuel.
Many used charter boats are seen as great purchases for living on-board, however make sure that they are suited for blue water sailing and not only for coastal water.
Here’s a list of the Top 15 best Multihulls reviewed in this article:
This varies greatly, often defined used or new by the design, size, year and finish. Quality vessels are built to last and retain market-related value if undamaged.
On average a 45-foot catamaran can range from US$250,000-US$1,000,000.
The fully loaded Isla 40 costs around US$527,000. The Balance 42 sail away price fully cruise equipped is US$1,450,000 while the Kinetic 54’s price tag approaches US$3,000,000. The modern styled Sunreef 80 costs around $6.2 million.
We think that the Seawind 1600 is, for its size and quality, a superb priced performance product at US$900,000.
One of the major benefits for a cruising vessel is to be able to enter shallower seas – catamarans have a shallower draft than monohulls and therefore a great appeal to folk for whom this is a major consideration. Most lagoons are only 6-8 feet deep in the South Pacific. The Caribbean and other areas where you have reefs to navigate and shallow sandbanks to cross to enter overnight anchor stops draft is a very important consideration. Always remember to read your tide tables and swell.
A catamaran is lighter on the water and therefore takes less energy to move, however they have 2 engines which drives up fuel costs. They are more fuel-efficient on flat water (compared to equal horsepower and number of engines) but in heavy weather the monohull’s hull design causes less resistance and therefore higher efficiency.
With lighter weight and high buoyancy generally they have low water drag by comparison to the displacement of a monohull of the same length.
The trampoline serves many purposes – primarily to allow water to quickly pass through, allowing the bow to rise and so preventing the vessel from flipping and they are ideal for pleasure purposes.
To sail around the world the vessel needs to be equipped for offshore cruising and have a heavy load capacity.
The bigger Modern blue water cats are built with this in mind – supplies, crew, technology and gear.
A bigger boat has many advantages such as speed (not only to travel longer distance in shorter time but also to outrun potential bad weather) and comfort space, space for crew and friends, storage space for supplies and fun equipment, etc.
It is important to balance price against comforts, maintenance and repair costs as well as any potential income from your vessel (chartering, Air BNB, hosting courses on-board, etc) – generally here the bigger your vessel the higher the potential for greater income.
The larger your vessel the higher your expenses are in all ways – from Insurance to berthing, maintenance, haul out fees and equipment.
Table of content:, breadcrumbs.
Three sailboats racing in the Indian Ocean
Paddle boarding
Everyday Life
If you want to enjoy long-term living on the water, a liveaboard catamaran can provide the perfect combination of comfort and adventure. However, buying and owning a catamaran can cost you a fortune. If you're not sure which one suits your budget, here are 13 of the best liveaboard catamarans on the market today, covering a range of budgets and lifestyles.
The 13 best liveaboard catamarans for different budgets are:
Lagoon 450f, nautitech 46 fly.
If you're on a tight budget but still want to enjoy the liveaboard lifestyle, the Leopard 40, Lucia 40, and Lagoon 400 are some of your best options. If you have a slightly higher budget to live up to your dream life aboard, let's see which of these catamarans will suit your needs best.
Best liveaboard catamarans for all budgets.
$400,000 - $500,000 | 78 sqm | 1 galley, 2 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$450,000 - $550,000 | 82 sqm | 1 galley, 2 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$350,000 - $450,000 | 78 sqm | 1 galley, 4 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$350,000 - $450,000 | 77 sqm | 1 galley, 4 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$600,000 - $700,000 | 105 sqm | 1 galley, 4 heads | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$500,000 - $600,000 | 100 sqm | 1 galley, 4 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$500,000 - $600,000 | 95 sqm | 1 galley, 2 heads | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
$700,000 - $800,000 | 130 sqm | 1 galley, 4 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$700,000 - $800,000 | 106 sqm | 1 galley, 4 heads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | |
$700,000 - $1,000,000 | 186 sq. ft. | Fully equipped | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | |
$600,000 - $900,000 | 140 sq. ft. | Fully equipped | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | |
$1,000,000 - $2,000,000 | 161 sq. ft. | Fully equipped | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | |
$1,000,000 - $2,000,000 | 215 sq. ft. | Fully equipped | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
When choosing the best liveaboard catamaran, there are questions you need to ask yourself such as:
If you plan to sail around the world and are not sure what catamaran size is perfect for your goal , you can get some tips from this article.
You may also need to check your budget. Keep in mind that the purchase price is just one aspect of the cost of owning a catamaran. See how much it actually costs to buy and own a catamaran in this article.
You may also need to factor in ongoing maintenance, repairs, and other expenses, such as docking costs. Docking costs depend on the location of the marina and the actual size of your catamaran, but to give you an idea of how much it costs to dock a catamaran , here's an article that can help you.
The best liveaboard catamarans have these most important features :
Living space Look for a catamaran with an open layout, large windows, and plenty of natural light to create a spacious and inviting living area.
Galley and heads Choose a catamaran with a well-designed galley that is easy to use and has plenty of storage space. The heads should be spacious and comfortable, with a separate shower area if possible.
Performance and handling You might want to opt for a catamaran with a good sail plan and sailing controls that are easy to operate. If you plan to do offshore cruising, perhaps consider a catamaran with a shallow draft and good seaworthiness.
Safety and seaworthiness Choose a catamaran with sturdy construction and good safety features, such as handrails and lifelines. You might want to make sure also that the catamaran is designed for single-handed sailing if you plan to sail solo.
Estimated price range: $400,000 - $500,000
The Leopard 40 has a spacious interior with a modern and stylish design. It features four cabins and two heads, providing ample living space for up to 8 people.
The cabins are well-ventilated and well-lit, with large windows that offer panoramic views of the sea. The saloon is also spacious, with comfortable seating and a large dining table.
The galley is well-equipped with a large refrigerator, freezer, gas stove, oven, and plenty of storage space. The heads are also well-designed, with separate shower stalls and electric toilets.
The Leopard 40 has a sleek and streamlined design that allows it to move smoothly through the water. The twin engines provide plenty of power, and the boat is easy to maneuver even in tight spaces.
The boat also comes with a range of performance features, such as a large sail area, a self-tacking jib, and a full-batten mainsail.
The Leopard 40 is built to the highest standards of safety, with a strong and durable hull, high-quality rigging, and a range of safety features such as lifelines, handrails, and safety harnesses.
The boat also has excellent stability, which makes it very safe and comfortable to sail in rough seas.
Estimated price range: $450,000 - $550,000
The Lucia 40 is a spacious catamaran that offers plenty of living space for a family or a group of friends. It has a large saloon with a U-shaped sofa and a dining table that can comfortably seat six people.
The saloon is surrounded by large windows that provide plenty of natural light and a great view of the surroundings. The catamaran has four cabins and two heads, which provide ample sleeping space for up to eight people. The cabins are well-appointed and offer plenty of storage space.
The galley on the Lucia 40 is located in the saloon and is well-equipped with a three-burner stove, oven, fridge, and plenty of counter space for food preparation.
The two heads are located in each hull and are equipped with a shower, toilet, and sink. They are spacious and provide plenty of privacy.
The Lucia 40 is a performance-oriented catamaran that is designed for cruising in comfort. It has a sleek and modern design that allows it to sail efficiently in a wide range of wind and sea conditions.
The catamaran is equipped with a full batten mainsail and a furling genoa, which provide excellent sail performance. The helm station is located on the flybridge, which provides excellent visibility and allows for easy handling.
The Lucia 40 has a solid fiberglass hull and a structural bulkhead that provides excellent strength and rigidity. The catamaran is equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a first aid kit.
It is also equipped with a comprehensive navigation system, which includes GPS, radar, and an autopilot, to ensure safe and accurate navigation.
Estimated price range: $350,000 - $450,000
The Lagoon 400 offers ample room for passengers to relax and socialize. The main saloon is located on the same level as the cockpit, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.
The saloon features a large dining table and comfortable seating, while the cockpit provides additional seating and a table for outdoor dining. The cabins are also spacious and comfortable, with plenty of storage space.
The galley is well-equipped with a stove, oven, refrigerator, and sink, making it easy to prepare meals while underway. The heads are also well-designed, with separate shower stalls and electric toilets.
This boat has a generous sail area, a powerful rig, and a light displacement, which allows it to sail well in a variety of conditions. The boat's twin hulls also help to reduce drag and increase stability, which makes it easier to sail in choppy seas or high winds.
The Lagoon 400 is also equipped with twin engines, which allow it to be easily maneuvered in tight spaces or when docking. The boat's shallow draft, which is one of the advantages of sailing a catamaran , also makes it suitable for exploring shallow waters or anchoring in secluded bays.
The boat's twin hulls provide excellent stability, which reduces the risk of capsizing. See a detailed comparison between catamaran and monohull in this article.
The boat is also equipped with a range of safety features, including a solid fiberglass hull, watertight bulkheads, and a high freeboard, which helps to keep the boat dry and reduce the risk of swamping.
The boat is also built to withstand rough seas and strong winds, with a reinforced hull and high freeboard. It also features a range of safety features, including lifelines, safety harnesses, and an emergency tiller.
The cockpit and saloon are on the same level, which creates a large open-plan living area. The saloon has a U-shaped seating area, which can comfortably seat six people, and a large table that can be lowered to create a double berth.
The galley of Bali 4.0 is located aft of the saloon and is well-equipped with a three-burner stove, oven, refrigerator, and sink. The boat has four cabins, each with its own en-suite head and shower. The cabins are spacious and comfortable, and the heads are modern and well-designed.
The Bali 4.0 has a self-tacking jib and a fully battened mainsail, which makes it easy to sail short-handed. The boat is also equipped with a Code 0 sail, which provides additional downwind performance. The boat's helm is responsive and easy to control, and the boat is stable and predictable in a variety of conditions.
The Bali 4.0 is a seaworthy boat that is designed to be safe and comfortable in a variety of conditions. The boat has a high freeboard, which provides additional safety and protection from waves and spray.
The boat also has a solid foredeck, which provides additional safety when moving around the boat. It is also equipped with a full suite of safety equipment, including life rafts, life jackets, and safety harnesses.
Estimated price range: $500,000 - $600,000
The Bali 4.3 has a large saloon with panoramic views, plenty of natural light, and a modern design. The saloon is equipped with a large U-shaped sofa, a dining table, and a chart table. The cockpit is also spacious and features a dining table, a sunbathing area, and a helm station.
The galley and heads on the Bali 4.3 are well-designed and offer plenty of space and storage. It is located in the saloon and features a 3-burner stove, an oven, a large refrigerator, and plenty of counter space. The heads are located in each hull and feature a separate shower, electric toilets, and plenty of storage.
The Bali 4.3 is a fast and agile catamaran. It features a self-tacking jib and a square-top mainsail, which make it easy to handle and maneuver. The boat is also equipped with twin engines, which provide good speed and maneuverability.
The Bali 4.3 features a solid construction, a high freeboard, and a wide beam, which make it very stable and comfortable even in rough seas. The boat is also equipped with a number of safety features, including lifelines, safety harnesses, and life jackets.
The Catana 42 has a spacious interior layout with plenty of natural light and ventilation. The saloon and cockpit are integrated into one living area, which provides a comfortable and functional living space.
The galley is located in the port hull and features a three-burner stove, oven, refrigerator, and ample storage space. The heads are located in the starboard hull, with one head serving as the owner's suite en-suite and the other serving the remaining three cabins.
The catamaran is designed to be fast and stable, with a high bridge deck clearance and a narrow hull-to-waterline beam ratio. It also has a large sail area, which provides good speed in light winds.
The boat is designed to be self-righting in the event of a capsize , and the hulls are foam-filled for added buoyancy. The boat also features a robust construction with a reinforced keel and rudder, making it suitable for offshore cruising.
Estimated price range: $600,000 - $700,000
The Nautitech 46 Open is a spacious and comfortable catamaran that offers ample living space, a well-equipped galley, and multiple heads for convenience. The living area is open and airy, with large windows and plenty of natural light.
The galley is fully equipped with modern appliances and ample storage space, making it easy to prepare meals and entertain guests. The heads are also well-appointed, with modern fixtures and plenty of space for comfort.
The Nautitech 46 Open is a capable and responsive catamaran that is easy to sail and maneuver. The boat's twin hulls provide excellent stability and make it easy to handle in a variety of conditions.
The boat's rig is designed for performance, with a large sail area and a well-balanced design that allows for easy handling and excellent speed.
The boat is built to the highest standards of safety and durability, with a strong and sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of offshore sailing. The boat is also equipped with all the necessary safety features, including life rafts, life jackets, and safety harnesses, to ensure that you and your crew stay safe on the water.
Estimated price range: $700,000 - $800,000
The Lagoon 450F is a spacious catamaran that offers plenty of room for living and entertaining. The saloon is large and open, with plenty of natural light and ventilation.
The cockpit is also spacious and comfortable, with a large dining table and seating for up to eight people. The cabins are well-designed and offer plenty of storage space, and the bathrooms are modern and well-appointed.
The Lagoon 450F has a well-equipped galley that is perfect for preparing meals while at sea. The galley features a large refrigerator and freezer, a three-burner stove, an oven, a microwave, and plenty of counter space. The heads are also well-designed and offer plenty of space and privacy.
The Lagoon 450F is a fast and stable catamaran that is easy to handle. The boat is powered by two Yanmar diesel engines, which provide plenty of power and speed.
The boat is also equipped with a high-performance sail plan, which allows for easy and efficient sailing.
This boat is built to the highest standards of safety and quality and is equipped with all of the necessary safety equipment, including life rafts, life jackets, and emergency flares.
The boat is also designed to be self-sufficient, with a large water tank and generator, which allows for extended periods of time at sea.
The Helia 44 has a spacious and well-designed interior that maximizes living space. The saloon features large windows that provide plenty of natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
The seating area is comfortable and can accommodate up to 8 people. The cabins are also spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of storage space and en-suite bathrooms.
The galley on the Helia 44 is well-equipped and designed for easy use. It features a large refrigerator, a 3-burner gas stove, an oven, and a microwave. The heads are also well-designed, with separate shower stalls and plenty of storage space.
The Helia 44 has a powerful rig and a high aspect ratio sail plan that provides excellent speed and maneuverability. The boat also has a shallow draft, which makes it easy to navigate in shallow waters.
This boat has a solid construction that provides excellent stability and strength. It also features a range of safety equipment, including life rafts, EPIRBs, and fire extinguishers.
Estimated price range: $700,000 - $1,000,000
The Leopard 48 features a spacious saloon with a comfortable seating area and a large dining table. The saloon is surrounded by panoramic windows that provide plenty of natural light and stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
The catamaran also has a large cockpit area with a dining table and comfortable seating, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.
The galley on the Leopard 48 is well-equipped with modern appliances and ample storage space. It features a large refrigerator, a freezer, a three-burner stove, and an oven. The catamaran also has three heads, each with a shower, sink, and toilet.
The Leopard 48 is a high-performance catamaran that is easy to handle and maneuver. It has a powerful sail plan and lightweight construction that allows it to sail smoothly and efficiently even in light winds.
The catamaran is also equipped with a powerful engine that provides excellent speed and maneuverability.
The Leopard 48 is a safe and seaworthy catamaran that is designed to handle even the toughest ocean conditions. It has a sturdy construction and a stable platform that provides excellent stability and safety.
The catamaran is also equipped with modern safety features such as a GPS navigation system, a radar, and an autopilot.
Estimated price range: $600,000 - $900,000
The Nautitech 46 Fly is a spacious catamaran that offers plenty of room for living and entertaining. The interior is bright and airy, thanks to large windows and an open floor plan.
There are four cabins and four heads, making it a great option for families or groups of friends. The salon is comfortable and features a dining area and a well-equipped galley.
The galley on the Nautitech 46 Fly is well-equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, stove, oven, and plenty of counter space. There is also a double sink and a dishwasher. The heads are spacious and comfortable, with separate shower stalls and electric toilets.
The Nautitech 46 Fly is a pleasure to sail, with good speed and handling. The boat is responsive and easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. The twin engines provide plenty of power and make docking and maneuvering a breeze.
The boat is designed to handle rough seas and strong winds, making it a great option for offshore sailing. There are also plenty of safety features, including lifelines, safety harnesses, and a well-equipped first aid kit.
Estimated price range: $1,000,000 - $2,000,000
The living space is designed for comfort and entertainment. The spacious saloon offers panoramic views and ample seating for guests.
The interior is finished with high-quality materials and features modern amenities such as air conditioning, a fully equipped galley, and plenty of storage space. It also has four spacious cabins and four heads, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.
The galley on the Catana 50 is well-equipped with a large refrigerator, freezer, oven, and stove. The countertops are made of durable and easy-to-clean materials, and there is plenty of storage space for food and cooking utensils. The heads are spacious and feature modern fixtures and finishes.
The catamaran's lightweight construction and high-tech materials make it fast and agile, while its twin daggerboards and rudders provide excellent maneuverability and control. The boat is easy to handle, even in challenging conditions, and offers a smooth and comfortable ride.
The catamaran's hull design and construction are engineered to withstand the rigors of offshore sailing, and the boat is equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, including life rafts, EPIRBs, and fire extinguishers.
Need a complete list of safety equipment for your boat ? Here's an article that might be helpful for you.
The vessel also features a high freeboard, wide decks, and a sturdy rigging system, making it a stable and secure platform for sailing in all conditions.
The Lagoon 52 is known for its spacious interior and exterior living areas. The main salon is located on the bridge deck and features a large dining table, comfortable seating, and panoramic views.
The cockpit is also spacious and has plenty of seating for outdoor dining and lounging. The cabins are well-appointed and offer plenty of storage space and natural light.
The galley on the Lagoon 52 is equipped with modern appliances and ample counter space, making it easy to prepare meals for large groups. There are also multiple heads on the boat, each with a shower and toilet, making it convenient for guests to freshen up after a day of exploring.
The Lagoon 52 is designed for optimal performance and handling. It has a powerful sail plan and a lightweight construction that allows it to move swiftly through the water
The boat is also easy to handle, even with a small crew, thanks to its user-friendly design and advanced technology.
The boat is built to withstand rough seas and harsh weather conditions, with sturdy construction and advanced safety features such as a self-tacking jib and an automatic reefing system.
The boat also has a spacious cockpit and wide decks that make it easy to move around and handle the boat in all conditions:
You may also like, catamaran vs monohull in rough seas: which is better.
Catamarans and monohulls have different designs that affect how they handle rough sea conditions. In fact, they have an advantage over each other when sailing in …
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?
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.
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?
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.
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!
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?
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
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?
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.
“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!
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!
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.
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,
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!
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?
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.
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!
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.
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?
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.
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 😉
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 .
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!
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.
Catamarans, when set up correctly, can be sailed single-handed or shorthanded. Some of the changes you’ll have to make include;
More info on how to sail single-handed
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.
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;
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!
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!
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
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.
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!
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.
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.
“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.
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!
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!
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!).
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!
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.
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...
Did You Know That We Offer Contract to Closing Services? Click Here to Find Out More.
Need Marine Financing? Apply Here With Our Partner, First Approval Source
The Seawind 1000, designed by Richard Ward and Scott Judson, was first built in Australia in 1994. The debut model was the first catamaran ever to be awarded “Australian Cruising Sailboat of the Year.” Over 225 Seawind 1000 series boats have been built, and while many might scoff at a sub-35’ catamaran tackling long ocean passages and 80+ knot storms, this light, nimble catamaran just might surprise you.
After initially launching with an inboard Bukh diesel engine, charter companies requested a model with twin outboards for ease of maintenance and maneuverability. This outboard model was a clear success and so became the standard for the 1000 model family.
Since then, the Seawind 1000 was placed in Australian charter companies in the Whitsundays, Pittwater, Sydney Harbour, the Gold Coast, Darwin, Perth and Melbourne. The 1000 series has also been placed into charter in the U.S., Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Brazil, and Europe.
The Seawind 1000 series, which evolved from the Seawind 850, includes the 33’ Seawind 1000, 1050 Resort (launched in 1998), 35.5’ 1000 XL (launched in 2007), and 1000 XL2 (launched in 2012). As the 1000 series progressed, Seawind made the cats longer by extending the transoms for added buoyancy, stability, and speed.
In addition to some solid cruising and chartering chops, it seems she can win races as well. Recently, Larry Robertson single handed his Seawind 1000 catamaran to victory in the 2018 Shaka Challenge.
While popular among charterers, the 1000 model family is the first true “cruising catamaran” for the Seawind brand, and is characterized by 2-meter fixed mini keels, twin 9.9hp Yamaha 4-stroke outboards, an open salon/cockpit area, galley down and three cabins tucked into the hulls.
Some of the most popular features of the Seawind 1000 include:
Theory is good for the classroom, but practical experience is the only way to tell whether that shiny boat in the slip is really what will carry you safely through whatever Poseidon throws at you.
With an LOA of 33-feet and a generous sail plan, the Seawind 1000 offers a nimble, lively ride in even the worst conditions. Designer Richard Ward notes that quite a few Seawind 1000’s were delivered to New Zealand and Hawaii after surviving 70-knot storms. Captain Royce Black once delivered a Seawind 1000 safely through a Cat-5 hurricane, achieving speeds over 25 knots on bare poles.
While not the standard conditions your average cruiser will encounter, it’s heartening to know that the Seawind 1000 can handle itself and its cargo in unsettled weather.
Ok, she can sail, but is she comfortable?
We asked this question of Joe Siudzinski, a veteran sailor and prior owner of Katiecat , a 2000 Seawind 1000. He and his wife Cathy put over 25,000nm under the hulls of Katiecat , including extensive coastal cruising in Australia and New Zealand, with passages to Fiji, New Caledonia, and more. Once of their highest compliments of the 1000 is that her layout is exceptionally comfortable.
With the three main living spaces, salon, cabin, and galley all located along the pitch axis of the boat, the crew remained comfortable and rested while on passage. Additionally, the Siudzinski’s found the 1000’s cockpit to be well protected from the elements, while still providing ample visibility.
“The most attractive feature of the boat that distinguishes it from all other boats is its sheltered main saloon with 360-degree visibility when seated .”
~Joe and Cathy, SV Katiecat
Due to her short length and wide beam, the Seawind 1000 can experience some uncomfortable jerky motions in confused seas or when beating into strong seas. While bridgedeck clearance isn’t the sole indicator of slamming potential, with her 29” clearance, she experienced surprisingly low incidence of bridgedeck slams.
Of course, to maintain comfort and safety, some key things to remember, especially on smaller cats is not to overload the boat. To avoid hobby horsing, keep bows light. The aft can be a bit heavier, particularly when you’ve got a dinghy hanging out on davits, and that’s ok. Just de sure to store heavy things amidships and again–don’t overload.
“The Seawind’s performance doesn’t appear to be as sensitive to weight as other cats I’ve sailed on and we still have a few inches left below our anti-fouling waterline mark. For the two of us, recognizing its load-carrying limitations, I feel that our modified Seawind 1000 is a wonderful coastal cruiser and acceptable ocean passagemaker.”
After a few years of sailing on their Seawind 1000, the Siudzinski decided to have sugarscoop extensions (now stock on the Seawind 1000XL2 model) fabricated to add an additional couple of feet to the cat’s waterline. They found that the additional length helped dampen pitching motion in rough seas.
Let’s talk about those outboards, though.
After a brief experiment with a four-cylinder Bukh inboard diesel, charter companies asked Richard Ward to design the 1000 with outboards for easier servicing. Thereafter, the 1000’s were powered by 9.9hp four-stroke, Yamaha outboards with a hi thrust 3:1 gear ratio and extralong shafts, which are mounted on lifting brackets to keep the prop clean, safe, and reduce drag.
While this may be a feature for charter catamarans, does the same hold true for cruising catamarans that want to go farther and escape inclement weather faster?
Joe chimed in on this issue as well. No one really likes carrying large amounts of gasoline around due to the obvious fire hazard. The weight issue may be moot due to the savings of not dragging around twin diesels. So what it really comes down to is how far you can go and how fast you can get there. According to Joe, he was able to hit 7.8 knots with both outboards wide open in zero wind. This is far faster than a similarly-sized monohull with a diesel engine could accomplish.
Outboards may be notoriously unreliable, but the Yamaha has a great reputation, you can find parts available worldwide, and of course, you’ve got two. Safety in redundancy, right? Finally, the Yamaha 9.9 is fairly fuel efficient, averaging 1.2 liters per hour at an average speed of 4.5 knots.
One of the really thoughtful additions that Seawind provided on this model family is the retractable ladder stored between the trampolines for easy access to land when beached or for an easy exit from the water when swimming. Few other catamarans can boast this same feature.
Seawind has a reputation for being responsive to owners’ input regarding issues and features. Some, like the sugarscoop extensions have been implemented, as well as the hardtop bimini. What could cruisers find useful though?
Not a long list, though some may have other wishes. As always, everything in life is a trade-off.
The Seawind 1000 has proven itself to be a sturdy, nimble vessel, suitable for longer passages. Should you pack up the family and set sail on one of these? Well, maybe if you’ve got a small family. The Seawind 1000 is still a smaller vessel, perhaps more suitable for a couple with the occasional low-maintenance guest. And, if you’re hoping to avoid testing your new vessel to her limits, consider adding an SSB or satellite-based weather reporting to ensure you get accurate weather wherever you are.
References :
Katiecat – http://www.katiekat.net/Welcome.html
Seawind 1000XL2 – There is a reason – https://www.sail-world.com/Australia/Seawind-1000XL2-%e2%80%93-There-is-a-reason/-116060?source=google
Seawind 1000 – https://www.boatsales.com.au/editorial/details/seawind-1000-8839/
River is a licensed USCG Captain with a lifetime of experience on the water. From the San Francisco Bay to the South Pacific, blue water to clear water, he’s sailed a wide variety of catamarans and crawled around in the bilges of more than he can count. You can follow his misadventures at www.tilted.life.
Great review cause i just bought a second hand xl2 in Phuket and will sail it to philippines and live aboard. For sure im on the more solar. And batts. Maybe a rain man an porble honda genset.
There’s plenty of solar you can buy in the Philippines for cheap the Manila yacht club has a fuel dock as does the subic bay yacht club
Owner of a 2009 1000xl Would like to talk with other 1000 owners about their boats, compare notes and get answers as to how they improved their boats.
Hi Dave, Although an older version, I have been sailing full-time aboard my 2001 Seawind 1000…up and down the US, Bahamas and eastern Caribbean for 8 years. Recently I have taken the boat on a two-year voyage through the Panama canal, across the Pacific to French Polynesia and then north to Hawaii. She has received many nice upgrades and I’d be happy to trade notes on any aspect of owning a Seawind 1000. Cheers! Vince
Hi Vince, I’m considering buying a Seawind 1000 and would like to know the difference between one that’s been built to survey and one that hasn’t. Do you know anything about this? Do you know if there’s much of a price difference?
Hey Dave Waiting on a ratified contract on an ‘09 Seawind 1000 XL as I type. Located in eastern North Carolina and going to be in the Chesapeake in the summer months. Hopefully an owner soon enough.
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.
The largest single handed catamaran class in the UK.
A very friendly active class encouraging both racing and leisure sailing
A car top-able boat, available in a range of configurations to meet everyone's needs
A strong second hand market. New boats and spare parts always available
Length 4.54m
Width 2.13m
Mainsail 10.19m2
Capacity 1 - 2
Weight 114kgs
The Dart 15 is a fifteen foot catamaran designed to be sailed by one or two crew with mainsail or mainsail and jib. It consistently has the largest entry of any single handed catamaran class in British National events. The boat can be trailered or transported on a car roof and can be easily rebuilt, ready to sail with no tools in under an hour.
UK Dart 15 Association
Windsport International
Manuals & Rigging Guides
The Dart 15
Spinnaker area, mast length, hull materials.
& reach your clients in one place, all year round
{{#each product.specData:i}} {{name}} : {{value}} {{#i!=(product.specData.length-1)}} {{/end}} {{/each}}
{{{product.idpText}}}
Length : 4.27 m Width : 2.34 m Weight : 109 kg
This was the first sports catamaran that was ever invented! Created in 1968, the Hobie 14 is unique and universal. It was a real revolution in water sports and continues to make the adrenaline ...
Length : 4.3 m Width : 2.2 m Weight : 90 kg
... transport on the roof of a car, without the risk of compromising safety in the water. All the profiles that make up the catamaran are anodised, and therefore protected to last over time. Ronstan and Viadana hardware ...
Length : 3.1 m
... speed and high performance or for a small family that wants compact, safe boat to have fun with. It comes in two options: 310 Sport which includes the jib and jib-winding system – jib furler and 310 Super which is simpler ...
Length : 4.2 m
An exciting high-tech Limited Edition MiniCat designed in cooperation with Laura Dekker – the youngest sailor to highhandedly circumnavigate the world. The design is based on MiniCat 420 Evoque using carbon fiber fittings, matt finish ...
Length : 4.6 m
The largest and most powerful MiniCat. The potential of the 460 Esprit is for those who seek maximum performance, speed and exhilaration. This boat constantly surprises with the simplicity of its handling. Constructed of the latest materials ...
Length : 3.9 m Width : 1.9 m Weight : 42 kg
... , and a free-standing mast make the assembly process as simple as possible, fast and tireless. Even a beginner can assemble it in 25 minutes! When disassembled, the catamaran is very compact and can ...
Length : 4.4 m Width : 2.2 m Weight : 64 kg
... Ducky-14s Ducky 14S is an uncompromising racing catamaran . This model is designed for those whose priority is speed and thrill. The “S” suffix in the name of this model is an abbreviation of the word ...
Length : 4.8 m Width : 2.3 m Weight : 65 kg
... it possible to use the Ducky 16 for short trips. One person can handle the catamaran . Additionally, an asymmetric spinnaker – gennaker can be installed on this catamaran . It is an effective sail ...
Length : 3.96 m Width : 2.13 m Weight : 111 kg
... exciting for the juniors while forgiving enough for the newly initiated, the Hobie Wave is the ideal must-go-sailing-now catamaran . Its symmetrically shaped hulls and keel design provide lift while eliminating the ...
Length : 4.8 m Width : 2.3 m Weight : 45 kg
... sailing catamaran . The Dart 16 provides exciting performance for kids, youth, and adults alike! With better manoeuvrability than many larger catamarans thanks to a unique hull shape, the Dart 16 has a ...
Length : 5 m Width : 2.5 m Weight : 145 kg
... redesigned from the ground up. The first leisure catamaran built to Olympic standards. Encourage and empower all levels of sailors. The new Nacra 500 MK2 is an accessible stepping stone into the world of catamaran ...
Length : 4.7 m Width : 2.35 m Weight : 94 kg
... Singlehanded or family crew Exciting single - handed – plenty of space for the family Blast across the bay – picnic on the beach More fun – more exciting adventures Storage and transport convenience Fast ...
Length : 5.17 m Width : 2.44 m Weight : 160 kg
... speed. The K2X sails fast, safe and sturdy. Accessories as the righting- and the boarding aid assures that the 17 foot catamaran can be righted by just one person after capsizing. This model follows consequently the ...
Length : 4.24 m
... learning, the M simplifies your navigation in total safety. The M has been chosen by the French Sailing Association as the catamaran of French Championship collective fleet Design inspired from actual multihulls, ...
Length : 4.3 m
The Sonic is a sport leisure catamaran , lonely or double for adults. Easy and handy, for controlled sensations ... Program By taking the platform of Tyka but with a high mast, one mainsail alone but ...
Length : 4.48 m
Now available: a 15-feet- catamaran with everything which made EAGLE- catamarans so much sought-after by racing cat sailors during the last years: hard-edged designed for sailing fast, ...
Length : 5.49 m
Our new development in multihulls. new A-class catamaran for 2013 season. platform specyfication: - hull carbon sandwich with 10mm honeycomb core. Main hull’s reinforcement made of UD carbon. Combination of HS ...
... centerboard design for fast tacking and sailing "close to the wind" - Unique 6-Beaufort Wind Force Certification (only inflatable catamaran in the segment) - Official DSV approval for regattas - ...
Length : 4.27 m
The larger version of one of the world's most popular one design catamarans brings you performance, simplicity and weight carrying capabilities not offered in other catamarans this size. Featuring wide, ...
Length : 2.7 m
... the United States in high volume and quality control, the UFO maintains a one-design philosophy, creating close and exciting racing on foils! Unique patented hull and rig designs Stable on and above the water Small ...
Length : 5 m
... experience acquired through our Sailing School since 1980. On the water, this catamaran gives a feeling of rigidity and weightlessness while being more dynamic than roto-molded catamarans (plastic). ...
Length : 499 cm Width : 2.33 m Weight : 85 kg
It is the fastest, best and most versatile of the Grabner inflatable sports catamarans – and also the largest one! With even larger hulls for more buoyancy and less resistance. With even more place for ...
Your suggestions for improvement:
Please specify:
Help us improve:
Receive regular updates on this section.
Please refer to our Privacy Policy for details on how NauticExpo processes your personal data.
Tips for singlehanded sailors
Create a notification for Catamaran
We will keep you posted on new articles on this subject.
Published 14/01/2011
By Jean-Christophe Guillaumin
Issue: Previous issues
Published: jan. / feb. 2013
Issue #: Previous issues
Published: January / February 2013
Preparing your sail, weather: choose the right window.
Subscribe to Multihulls World and get exclusive benefits.
What readers think.
Post a comment
No comments to show.
MW #197 - Oct / Nov 2024
Subscribe now.
The latest news from €3 / month
Our latest YouTube hit!
The 2024 results
Vous avez ajouté " " à vos favoris., vous avez supprimé " " de vos favoris., in order to add this article to your favorites, please sign in..
COMMENTS
The ten best solo bluewater catamarans have unique designs, are about 40 feet (12.2m) long, boast an autopilot, all lines to the cockpit, and can provide a safe ocean passage with only one sailor on board. Popular short-handed bluewater cat models include the Manta 42, Dolphin 42, and the FP Belize 43. Whether you're looking to buy a brand ...
Best Single-Handed Sailing Catamarans. Picking a catamaran for solo sailing may seem counterintuitive since they are so much larger than monohulls. But most modern catamarans are rigged from the factory for single-handed sailing. These boats are designed from the ground up for charter work—meaning that a captain will do all the work while ...
Here are a few tips to help make single handed catamaran sailing safer and easier. 1. Sleep in the Pilothouse. Most cruising catamarans have a spacious covered cockpit, also known as the pilot House. The pilothouse usually contains the galley and a large sitting area for eating or plotting charts.
Catalina 315. nwyachting. This is a nifty pocket cruiser that raises the quality bar for solo sailors with extreme comfort and performance. With just a 9.45 meter hull, the Catalina 315 has more internal room than most classics and remains superb for solo sailing.
The Outremer 45 is a 48 ft catamaran. Easy to control from the helm station, everything is within reach and the clear view over the four corners of the boat guarantees perfect maneuvers, even single-handed. With its narrow hulls and light weight, the feeling of gliding, well wedged in a comfortable seat with tiller in hand, is exhilarating.
The most legendary solo bluewater sailboats are the Contessa 32, Westsail 32, Hallberg-Rassy 42F, Pacific Seacraft 37, Island Packet 38, Tayana 42, and Amel 54. These boats have it all: from robust designs to a world-renowned reputation for performance and reliability. They are known for their seaworthiness, durability, and comfort.
Lagoon 380. The long-time best-seller from the world leader in catamarans, with more than 1,000 produced over almost 20 years from 1999. With its characteristic vertical windows, the 380 and its ...
After a lot of research Mark rigged his Lagoon 500 to be able to single handed fly an off the shelf Rolly Tasker Asymmetric Spinnaker and says it has been great and was impressed by the price. ... Lagoon Catamarans, known as the market leader in blue water cruising vessels, has once again raised the bar with the all-new Lagoon 43. ...
The Marsaudon Composites ORC50 (formerly the TS5 before the launch of their new brand: Ocean Rider Catamarans) ... Marsaudon are behind IDEC 2, the holder of the Single handed Around the World record, and Prince de Bretagne, winner of the Route du Rhum 2010 in the 50' class.
Water 350ltrs. Mainsail (Std) 58m2. Self-tacking jib 28m2. Gennaker (Std) 80m2. Spinnaker 100m2. The Rapier 400 redefines the fast cruising catamaran. Family cruising and performance sailing combined in one single handed capable fast catamaran. A boat designed as a safe family cruiser with all the speed and excitement of a pure-bred racer.
Both inside and out, our catamarans embody a modern design that sets the industry standard. Maneuvering these powerhouses for single - handed operation is a breeze, thanks to their user - friendly design. As the world leader in power catamarans, Leopard proudly maintains its reputation for excellence.
The Unique Rewards of Single-Handed Catamaran Sailing Experiencing Ultimate Freedom and Tranquility. Solo sailing on a catamaran offers an unparalleled sense of freedom. The tranquility of being at sea alone, surrounded by the natural beauty of the ocean, provides a unique opportunity for introspection and connection with nature.
Technical details. The F1x A-class foiling catamaran has a number of unique features that improve performance. For example: Semi ridged trampoline. Gives extra torsional stiffness to the boat and increases its aerodynamic characteristics. Patented main-sheet-wheel-system. For more direct and faster trim of the main sail.
The Hunter Channel 31, J/109, and West Wight Potter 19 are great budget-friendly, single-handed sailboats. Moving up in price, you can look at Hanse 371, Jeanneau Sunfast 3200, and even a Dehler 29. ... Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats. Daniel Wade. December 28, 2023. Can a Novice Sail Around the World? Elizabeth O'Malley. June 15, 2022. 4 ...
Oyster 565. The Oyster 565, produced by the prestigious British manufacturer Oyster Yachts, is an epitome of luxury and performance. Designed for blue-water cruising, it incorporates several features that make single-handed sailing possible. The boat's centre cockpit design, combined with in-mast furling and powered winches, ensures all ...
Lagoon Catamarans. Lagoon has always enjoyed a sweet spot in the 38 to 40-foot catamaran market. The Lagoon 380 became one of the most popular cats ever, with nearly 1,000 hulls being produced over a 20-year run. The L400 and L39 attempted to tweak that popular design, but neither caught on to the extent the 380 did.
Choose a catamaran with sturdy construction and good safety features, such as handrails and lifelines. You might want to make sure also that the catamaran is designed for single-handed sailing if you plan to sail solo. Leopard 40. Estimated price range: $400,000 - $500,000. Living space inside Leopard 40
The Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World A catamaran is a double-hulled boat with a deck or cabin area in between (bluewater cat definition in this article).The double hull design means that the boat rocks less, sits higher on the water, uses less fuel to sail, and can be sailed in shallower waters than a single-hulled boat without worrying about grounding.
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 ...
Recently, Larry Robertson single handed his Seawind 1000 catamaran to victory in the 2018 Shaka Challenge. Features. Seawind 1000 Layout. While popular among charterers, the 1000 model family is the first true "cruising catamaran" for the Seawind brand, and is characterized by 2-meter fixed mini keels, twin 9.9hp Yamaha 4-stroke outboards ...
The Dart 15 is a fifteen foot catamaran designed to be sailed by one or two crew with mainsail or mainsail and jib. It consistently has the largest entry of any single handed catamaran class in British National events. The boat can be trailered or transported on a car roof and can be easily rebuilt, ready to sail with no tools in under an hour ...
regatta sport catamaran 14. single-handeddouble-handedsingle-trapeze. Contact. Length: 4.27 m Width: 2.34 m Weight: 109 kg. This was the first sportscatamaran that was ever invented! Created in 1968, the Hobie 14 is unique and universal. It was a real revolution in water sports and continues to make the adrenaline ...
Tips for singlehanded sailors. Sailing singlehanded on a multihull imposes a different rhythm, greater anticipation and absolute respect of safety rules. Don't think that this subject only concerns real singlehanders. Family cruising with young children finally imposes the same constraints.