sailing guide catamaran

Catamarans: A Complete Guide to Multihull Boats

Catamarans have been a part of sailing history for centuries and continue to be popular for their stability, spaciousness, and performance. Developed by various cultures around the world, the principles of catamaran design have evolved over time to become optimized for both pleasure cruising and racing. This complete guide will help you understand the essentials of catamarans, their unique characteristics, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

From the basic concepts of multihull design, performance, and handling, we will explore the advantages and benefits of a catamaran in terms of safety and comfort on board.

Along the way, we will discuss maintenance considerations, distinctive catamaran brands and models, and how a catamaran lifestyle can compare to more traditional sailing options .

Finally, we will provide learning resources and frequently asked questions tailored to both seasoned sailors and newcomers to the world of catamarans.

Key Takeaways

Catamarans are known for their stability, spaciousness, and performance
This guide covers aspects like design, handling, safety, and choosing the right catamaran
Resources and frequently asked questions provide additional insights for potential catamaran owners

Understanding Catamarans

Design Characteristics

Catamarans are known for their unique design, which features two parallel hulls connected by a deck. This design provides several advantages over traditional monohull boats, such as stability and speed.

With their wide beam, catamarans have a reduced risk of capsizing and can access shallow waters due to their shallow drafts 1 .

One of the notable aspects of a catamaran is its twin hulls, which offer increased living space and comfort compared to a monohull. Additionally, catamarans are often favored by recreational and competitive sailors for their excellent maneuverability 2 .

The materials used for constructing catamarans range from wood to fiberglass, and even aluminum for high-performance vessels. Aluminum catamarans are known for their strength, lightweight structure, and resistance to corrosion 3 .

Hulls and Construction

The hulls in a catamaran are crucial to its stability and performance. These hulls help distribute the weight evenly across the water surface, minimizing drag and allowing for smoother sailing.

In general, the hulls can be categorized into two types:

Symmetrical Hulls : The hull shape is similar on both sides, which enhances balance and stability in various sailing conditions.
Asymmetrical Hulls : One side of the hull is designed differently than the other, which can be advantageous when sailing upwind.

The construction materials used in building catamaran hulls also play a vital role in the boat's performance and durability. Common materials include:

Fiberglass : A popular choice due to its lightweight, strength, and ease of maintenance.
Wood : Traditional material that offers a classic look, but requires more maintenance than fiberglass or aluminum.
Aluminum : Lightweight and strong, aluminum is an excellent choice for high-performance catamarans 4 .

Multihulls vs Monohulls

There's often a debate between the benefits of multihull boats, such as catamarans or trimarans, and monohull boats. Here are some key differences between the two:

Stability : Due to their wide beam and reduced heeling, catamarans offer improved stability compared to monohulls. This makes them an attractive option for those who want to avoid seasickness or feel more comfortable on the water 5 .
Speed : Multihull boats are known for their speed, which results from their ability to minimize drag and maintain a level sail.
Living Space : Catamarans and other multihulls generally have more living space, as both the hulls and the connecting deck can be utilized for accommodation and storage.
Maneuverability : While monohulls are known for their agility and ability to point close to the wind, catamarans can still offer exceptional maneuverability when properly sailed 6 .

Performance and Handling

Speed and Efficiency

Power catamarans have gained popularity for offering a unique combination of speed, efficiency, and stability. Their dual-hull design allows for less water resistance, which directly translates to higher speeds and better fuel efficiency compared to traditional monohull boats.

In addition, the wide beam provided by the two hulls ensures a stable ride even at higher speeds. This makes power catamarans ideal for cruising, fishing, and watersports ( Boating Beast ).

Sailing Dynamics

When it comes to sailing catamarans , the performance is affected by factors such as keel, rudders, mast, and sails.

Their wide beam and dual-hull design provide inherent stability and reduced heeling effect, making them less likely to capsize compared to monohulls.

I should also note that catamarans have a shallow draft, which gives them the ability to access shallow waters that may be off-limits to other boats ( Navigating the Waters ).

In my experience, the lighter weight of a catamaran and its aerodynamic design can contribute to remarkable sailing performance under different wind conditions.

The larger sail area relative to hull weight allows them to harness more wind power, further enhancing their speed and agility on the water.

Maneuvering and Docking

Maneuvering and docking a power catamaran involves understanding its unique handling characteristics.

The presence of two engines in separate hulls allows for more precise control in confined spaces such as marinas.

The maneuverability of these boats is typically improved by the use of dual rudders that are located close to each powered hull for efficient steering ( BoatUS ).

When docking under power, I find it helpful to carefully assess the wind and current conditions beforehand.

This is because catamarans can be more sensitive to windage due to their larger surface area above the waterline.

By understanding how these forces may affect the boat, I can make adjustments to my approach and successfully dock the catamaran without any incidents.

Safety and Comfort on Board

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority when sailing any type of vessel, including catamarans. A well-built catamaran offers several features aimed at ensuring the safety of those onboard.

First, catamarans have inherent stability due to their wide beam and twin hull design . This makes them less prone to capsizing than monohull boats. This stability allows me to confidently navigate various water conditions .

In addition to stability, catamarans are designed with positive buoyancy, making them almost unsinkable . Of course, safety equipment such as lifejackets, flares, and first aid kits should always be onboard and well-maintained.

Furthermore, you should also stay updated on weather conditions, avoid sailing in high-risk areas, and learn your boat's safe sail limits.

Living Spaces and Comfort

When it comes to living spaces, I value comfort and practicality as essential features for my time on the water. Catamarans offer a unique advantage in this regard, as their dual hulls create spacious living areas.

Most catamarans are designed with separate cabins in each hull, allowing for privacy and comfort when sleeping. Additionally, these boats typically feature shallow drafts , which means I can access shallow waters and anchor close to shore.

The main living area, or salon, is situated on the bridge deck between the hulls. It usually includes a seating area, a dining table, and a galley (kitchen). Large windows provide ample natural light and panoramic views, making the space feel open and bright. Some catamarans even have the option for an additional living area on the upper deck where you can enjoy the sun and breeze.

One aspect of catamaran living I truly appreciate is the ample storage available. Each cabin typically has built-in storage spaces for clothes, gear, and personal items. There are also designated areas for equipment such as spare sails, tools, and water toys. This makes it easy for me to keep my belongings organized and make the most of my time on the water.

Maintaining a Catamaran

Routine Maintenance

In order to keep my catamaran in the best possible shape, I make sure to perform routine maintenance tasks. These tasks are essential to extend the life of the components and ensure smooth sailing:

Cleaning : Regularly cleaning the deck, hulls, and sails prevents buildup of dirt, algae, and other debris that could affect performance.
Inspection : Periodically inspecting my catamaran allows me to detect any potential issues before they become significant problems. I pay close attention to the rigging, sails, and lines on my boat.
Lubrication : Keeping all moving parts lubricated is vital to prevent friction and wear on components such as winches and pulleys.
Antifouling : Applying antifouling paint to the hulls of my catamaran helps prevent the growth of marine organisms that can damage the boat and reduce its speed. Make sure to do this at least once a year.

Dealing with Wear and Tear

Despite my best efforts to keep my catamaran well-maintained, wear and tear is inevitable. Here's how I deal with common issues that could arise from regular use:

Repairs : When I notice signs of wear on sails, lines, or rigging components, I make it a priority to repair or replace them promptly. Neglecting these issues can lead to more significant problems and affect the boat's performance.
Hull maintenance : If I find dents, scratches, or stiff rudders on my catamaran's hulls, I address them immediately. Repairing any damage not only ensures smooth sailing but also prevents further issues from developing.
Sail care : Over time, my sails can become stretched, torn, or damaged due to exposure to sun, wind, and saltwater. Regularly inspecting them for signs of wear and making any necessary repairs or replacements helps maintain optimal performance.
Rust and corrosion prevention : Since my catamaran is made of various metal components, I need to protect them from rust and corrosion. I routinely check for signs of corrosion and apply anti-corrosive treatments when needed.

Catamaran Brands and Models

High-Performance Models

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in high-performance catamarans. I have seen a variety of brands and models that have impressed me with their performance capabilities. One notable brand is Fountaine Pajot , which has a long history of producing a range of sailing catamarans and power catamarans. Some of their popular models include the Tanna 47 and the Bali 4.4 .

Another high-performance catamaran I've come across is the Leopard 40 . Known for their speed and exceptional handling in various conditions, the Leopard brand started with sailing catamarans and has since expanded to include power catamarans. Their models range from 40 to 53 feet long, offering both power and luxury for those looking for a thrilling experience on the water.

Cruising Catamarans

When it comes to cruising catamarans, the Lagoon brand is synonymous with luxury and comfort. With a range of sailing catamarans from 40 to 70 feet long, Lagoon offers spacious catamarans for extended bluewater cruising. Their 60- and 70-foot power catamarans are equally impressive, providing ample living space and smooth sailing experiences.

I've also found the Aquila 42 PC to be a remarkable cruising catamaran. With a focus on design and innovation, Aquila has produced catamarans perfect for exploring the open sea with friends and family. Their spacious, stable designs allow for a more enjoyable and serene journey, ensuring you arrive at your destination comfortably.

The Catamaran Lifestyle

Anchoring and Cruising

I find catamarans to be a fantastic choice for cruising and anchoring , which is a critical part of living the catamaran lifestyle . Catamarans have several advantages when it comes to anchoring and cruising, such as:

Stability : Due to their wide beam and twin hulls, catamarans remain stable during anchoring, which reduces the risk of seasickness.
Shallow draft : Thanks to their shallow draft , catamarans can anchor close to shore, enabling better access to protected coves and more beautiful beaches.
Speed : Despite their large size for cruising vessels , catamarans are generally faster than monohulls. This is a result of their slim hulls and reduced water resistance.

When it comes to anchoring, catamarans can make use of their shallow draft to anchor in locations that other boats cannot. This allows for a greater range of cruising spots, which makes the overall experience much more enjoyable and unique.

Living on a Catamaran Full-time

For many catamaran enthusiasts, the dream of living full-time on a catamaran is entirely possible. While not without challenges, there are several factors that make living aboard a catamaran an enjoyable experience:

Spacious living areas : Catamarans generally have more living area compared to monohulls, providing ample space for the whole crew.
Privacy : The separate hulls allow for private cabins, ensuring that everyone on board has their space.
Stability : As mentioned earlier, catamarans are stable vessels, making living on them more comfortable than monohulls.

Choosing Your Catamaran

Comparing Models and Features

When I start to look for the perfect catamaran, the first thing I focus on is comparing various models and features .

I determine the key factors that are essential for my needs, such as size, passenger comfort, and performance. By doing so, I can identify which catamaran models are most suitable for me.

For example, if I plan to sail with a large group, I would look for a catamaran that offers ample space both inside and out.

To help me with my comparisons, I usually create a table or list of the different models and their features:

Model	Size	Comfort	Performance
A	40ft	Spacious	High
B	35ft	Average	Average
C	45ft	Luxury	High

This visual aid makes it easier for me to sort the options and prioritize my considerations, such as price, yacht type, and brand.

New vs. Second-Hand

Another critical aspect of choosing a catamaran is deciding between a new or second-hand boat.

Both options have their pros and cons, and ultimately it depends on my preferences and budget.

If I can afford a new catamaran, I get the advantage of the latest design , features, and technology. Plus, I typically receive better warranty coverage and support from the manufacturer.

However, new catamarans are more expensive and can have long wait times due to high demand.

On the other hand, purchasing a second-hand catamaran can save me a significant amount of money, and I might find a high-quality boat with low mileage or well-maintained by the previous owner.

However, this option carries more risks, as I need to be knowledgeable about potential maintenance issues and conduct a thorough inspection before purchase.

Learning Resources

Books and Manuals

When it comes to learning about catamarans, there are plenty of books and manuals available.

One of the highly recommended books is Multihull Voyaging by Thomas Firth Jones. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of multihulls, including catamarans, and is an essential guide for any beginner sailor.

Another great book to check out is Catamarans: The Complete Guide for Cruising Sailors by Gregor Tarjan.

With a foreword by Charles K. Chiodi, publisher of Multihulls Magazine, this book covers all aspects of cruising catamarans. It includes detailed information on design, construction, and maintenance, as well as tips and tricks for sailing a catamaran.

Here are a few more books that I find valuable:

The Catamaran Book by Tim Bartlett, an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced sailors
Catamaran Sailing: From Start to Finish by Phil Berman and Lenny Rudow, a comprehensive guide to both catamaran racing and cruising

Online Content and Photography

In addition to books, you can find plenty of online content and photography about catamarans.

Websites like Sailaway Blog and Boating Guide offer tips, techniques, and how-to articles for sailing catamarans.

Many of these sites also include stunning photography, showcasing these beautiful vessels in action.

For those who prefer Kindle or e-books, many of these resources are available in digital format.

This makes it easier for you to access them anytime, anywhere, allowing you to keep learning and improving your catamaran sailing skills.

To further enhance your knowledge, you can also join online forums and communities dedicated to catamarans.

These platforms provide invaluable advice and first-hand experiences shared by fellow sailors, as well as recommendations for additional learning resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should be considered when choosing a catamaran for full-time living?

When choosing a catamaran for full-time living, consider its space and layout , as it will become your home.

Look for a design with a comfortable living area , ample storage, and sufficient berths for the number of people living aboard.

Also, consider fuel efficiency , ease of maintenance, and the catamaran's cruising range .

Lastly, the overall cost of ownership , including insurance and mooring fees, should be considered.

How do catamarans perform in rough sea conditions?

In general, catamarans are known for their stability, which is primarily due to their wide beams. This makes them less prone to capsizing when compared to monohulls.

However, their performance in rough sea conditions will depend on the specific model and design of the catamaran. Some may perform better in certain conditions than others, so researching and selecting the right design is essential.

What are the key differences between sailing a catamaran and a monohull?

One of the main differences between catamarans and monohulls is stability.

Catamarans have a wider beam , which makes them more stable and minimizes the risk of capsizing.

They also have shallower drafts, which allow them to access more shallow waters compared to monohulls.

Additionally, catamarans often have larger living spaces, making them more comfortable and suitable for cruising and full-time living.

What are the advantages of catamarans for long-distance cruising?

Catamarans offer several advantages for long-distance cruising.

Their wide, stable design provides a comfortable ride and reduces the risk of seasickness.

They can also attain higher speeds due to their reduced drag and generally sail faster than monohulls on certain points of sail.

The shallow draft allows them to explore more coastal areas and anchor closer to shore. Lastly, their spacious interiors make them ideal for extended cruises and living aboard.

How does one assess the value of a used catamaran on the market?

Assessing the value of a used catamaran requires thorough research and inspection.

Start by comparing the age, model, and condition of the catamaran to similar listings on the market.

Take note of any upgrades or additions made to the boat, as these can affect the price.

It's essential to inspect the boat in person or hire a professional surveyor to ensure there are no hidden issues that could affect its value.

What essential features should be looked for in a catamaran intended for ocean voyages?

For ocean voyages, look for a catamaran with a strong, well-built hull designed to handle rough conditions.

Safety features such as liferafts, adequate flotation, and sturdy deck hardware are crucial.

A reliable engine and well-maintained rigging and sails are also essential.

In terms of living space, opt for a catamaran with a comfortable, spacious interior and ample storage.

Last but not least, good navigation and communication systems are necessary for long-distance ocean voyages.

Full Face Snorkel Mask 2024 Best Options: Top Picks & Expert Advice

Picnic Island Park: The Perfect Spot for Outdoor Fun

In Florida: Minimum Legal Age for Personal Watercraft Operation Revealed

Top 3 Yamaha 255x Series Boats: Your Ultimate Guide

Deck Boat Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide for Enthusiasts

Top 20 Parts of a Boat for Seamless Sailing

Which Action May Cause the Loss of Steering Ability in a Personal Watercraft (PWC)? Key Safety Risks Explained

Dream Yacht- New Fleet additions

How To Sail a Large Catamaran (Complete Guide)

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.

Over the years, catamarans have evolved from small boats to large cruisers capable of carrying thousands of people and tons of cargo. They have become increasingly popular because of their large carrying capacity, high speeds, and increased stability. If you are interested in learning how to sail a large catamaran, you are in the right place.

To sail a large catamaran like a professional, you first need to familiarize yourself with its different parts and commonly used sailing terms. Prepare for sailing by rigging and maneuver the waters by carefully tacking and jibing where necessary. Additionally, you will need to know about docking.

For mastery of catamaran sailing skills, you can enroll in sailing classes, watch as an expert sail, or watch YouTube tutorials. Additionally, you can use this piece, which offers a complete guide on sailing a catamaran. Read on to learn more about:

What is a catamaran
Parts of a catamaran
Important sailing terms
Catamaran sailing guide

Read this for some surprising and cheap ways of learning to sail a catamaran!

Table of Contents

Know the Essential Parts of a Catamaran and Important Sailing Terms

Before you learn how to sail, you need to understand what a catamaran is and its structure. Knowing the key parts of a catamaran is crucial if you are interested in sailing a cat because, other than expounding your knowledge, it helps with communication when sailing.

What Is a Catamaran?

A catamaran, also known as a cat, is a multi-hulled large sailboat . It features two engines and two equally sized parallel hulls connected by crossbeams from which it derives its stability. It boasts of a vast space that contributes to its large carrying capacity.

Essential Parts of a Catamaran

Below are some of the vital parts of a catamaran:

Hull : The body of the catamaran that carries cargo and passengers and also supports rigging.
Keel : usually mini keels that are attached below the hull to prevent the cat from sliding sideways. It provides stability and reduces the chances of capsizing .
Rudder : A movable underwater steering part of the cat that is turned by a tiller or steering wheel.
Mast : A robust vertical pole whose primary role is supporting sails.
Mainsail : The principal triangular sail on the mast, which is also the most important sail.
Headsail : Also known as the jib. It is the foresail that fits the foretriangle in the mast.
Boom: A pole that is horizontally attached to the mast mainly used for extending the foot of the mainsail.
Sheets : Strong ropes used to control the sail’s angle in relation to the wind.
Halyard : They are ropes used to raise or lower the sails on the mast.
Winch : A cylindrical or drum-shaped metallic device on which lines are wrapped for easier trimming.
Rigging : is everything that makes the sail function in the correct way. There are two types of rigging:
The running rigging: Refers to rigging used to operate the sails. For example, the halyard lowers and heaves the mainsail.
The standing rigging: The rigging that supports the mast and the sail to keep it upright.

Complete interactive guide to catamaran parts!

Now that you are familiar with some parts of a catamaran let’s look at the important sailing terminologies.

Important Sailing Terms

These important sailing terms will come in handy when sailing:

Port: When facing forward, port refers to anything to the left of the catamaran. You can use this term when referring to the left side.
Starboard : It is the opposite of ‘port.’ It refers to anything to the right of the cat.
Point of sail : This refers to the cat’s direction relative to the wind. For example, if the wind blows straight over the sides of your cat, you are on a ‘beam reach’ point of sail. Additionally, if you are heading straight to the wind (which is not advisable), you are on the ‘in irons’ point of sail.
Bow/stern : Refers to the front and back parts of the catamaran, respectively. Anything to the front is said to be in the ‘forward’ / ‘Abaft’ while the back is in the ‘aft.’
Heeling: A situation in which the catamaran leans over in the water while being pushed by the wind.
Windward : It is the side of the cat that is closest to the wind. When heeling, the windward side is often the highest.
Leeward : The side of your cat furthest from the wind. It is often the lowest side when heeling.
Tack: Tack has two distinct meanings as a verb and as a noun. As a verb, it means changing direction by turning the catamaran’s bow through the wind. On the other hand, it means your cat’s course relative to the wind as a noun. For example, if the wind is blowing on the port side, you will say you are on the port tack.
Jibe (Gybe) : It is another way of changing direction, in which case you bring the stern through the wind.

Complete parts guide if you want to know more!

With the above terms in mind, you are now better positioned to understand how to sail a catamaran.

Understand How a Catamaran Works

A catamaran works similarly to any other monohull sailboat. However, many people, and especially newbies, do not clearly understand the concept behind the forward motion. Here is how it works:

Once in the water, the wind blows over the sails creating high pressure on one side and low pressure on the opposite side. These two opposite pressures create a forward force. As the wind continues to blow, it forms a pulling force that works on your cat, making it move. And because your cat has keels under the hull, they help it to move forward and not slide to the side as much.

Your control of the steering wheel, plus the pressure of the wind, keep your cat moving in your desired direction. This means you do not just sit back and wait for the wind to heel your cat. You, too, have control over it.

Prepare Your Catamaran for Sailing

The state of your catamaran and the weather conditions affect sailing. Therefore, it’s important to prepare and assess the weather conditions before you set out.

To prepare your catamaran for sailing:

Perform a Detailed Check

Visually check your cat to ensure all parts are intact and in perfect working condition. Here are a few things to do:

Check your standing and running rigging for cracks or excessive wear.
Ensure that the lines are free; that is, they are not wrapped around each other or folded on to anything else within the cat. Pull the lines off the cleats (on-deck hooks) and off the winches to ensure they are free of any obstacles.
Additionally, check if the tiller is properly attached to the rudder. Also, ensure that it efficiently controls the rudder.
Check the condition of your sails. They should be straight with no frayed edges or wrinkles. At this point, your cat is ready for you to hoist the sails.

Determine the Wind’s Direction

Use the wind instruments on your cat to check the direction of the wind. Most cats have a wind indicator on their mast or a digital gauge.

Additionally, you can determine the wind’s direction using the flags attached to the sides of your cat.

Point the Catamaran to the Wind

Having known the direction of the wind, now point your cat in the right direction using your engines to move you into place. The idea here is to have minimum wind resistance when raising the sails.

Hoist the Sails

After preparing your cat, the next step is to hoist the sails. To do this:

Attach the Sails

To hoist the sails, start with the mainsail.

Prepare your mainsail for hoisting; open the easy-bag (a zip bag that stores the mainsail). Before releasing the mainsail, ensure that everything is clear to allow it to pass between the lazy jacks (riggings along each side of the mainsail that extends from the boom o a point on the mast) with ease.
Locate the main halyard (rope used to raise or lower the mainsail) in your cat and begin raising the mainsail. If you have enough manpower, you can begin pulling it by hand (wear a pair of hand gloves or use a winch for this). Pull it until it is perfectly positioned on the mast. Your mainsail is now hoisted. Allow it to fill with air.
Next, correctly coil the main halyard so that the mainsail can be lowered quickly and with much ease if need be.
Now we move on to the headsail/jib/genoa. Hoisting the jib is much easier compared to hoisting the mainsail. Identify the jib halyard (rope used to raise or lower the jib) in your cat. Just like the mainsail, ensure the jib is free, and the reefing lines are clear.
Start pulling the jib halyard until the jib is correctly positioned. You can pull it by hand or using the winch. Coil your jib halyard correctly.
Your sails are now positioned, and you are ready to sail. Be sure to trim them according to changes in the wind’s direction.

Adjust Your Direction and Sail Trim

Always remember it is not possible to sail your cat directly into the wind. You can change your direction through tacking or jibing.

When heeling, a heel greater than 10° is an indication that the wind is overpowering you, and your windward hull will be close to lifting. In this case, consider releasing the main sheets briefly to reduce the heel. A comfortable heeling position is between 6-7°.

Trim the Jib Sheets

Despite the mainsail being hoisted first, the jib comes first when trimming. Of the two jib sheets on the catamaran’s sides, start by pulling the one on the leeward. The leeward sheet is known as the active sheet, and the lazy sheet is the one opposite.

The jib sheet forms a curve as you trim, and it’s up to you to trim it until its front edge stops luffing.

Trim the Mainsail

Trimming the mainsail is easy. Pull out the main sheet. Once the mainsail’s front edge starts luffing, draw it back until the luffing stops.

If the direction remains constant, this position is ideal to set your sails. If the wind direction changes, adjust the sheet appropriately. At this point, you are more than ready to sail.

Sail Your Catamaran

Watch your sails.

Keep an eye on the sail edge’s front on the jib and the mainsail. If you notice any luffing on your sails, you have a couple of options. To either tighten the main sheets to stop the luffing or direct the cat away from the wind (bearing off). At this point, luffing indicates that you are going much deeper into the wind’s direction.

Watch Out for Your Telltale

Telltales are the wind indicators that notify you of any changes in the wind direction on your sails. Your telltales will help you know whether your sail trim is correct. They help you determine how you should adjust your sails to get the maximum forward momentum.

Different Points of Sail

Broad reach.

A broad reach is when you have the wind blowing at your back and side.

It’s the most efficient sailing position when going downwind because both sails will be filled with wind, thus moving you at maximum force.

Running is when the wind is blowing at your back. This is not a good sailing position. It is risky because the plenty of air moving over the sail generates more force than the wind pushing the cat. To avoid this, pull the jib sheet over to the opposite side to create a wing-on-wing position. This helps in reducing the force on the sail.

Note : When your cat is running, it’s possible that the force of the wind behind it can cause a sudden jibe (gybe). This sudden change of direction can throw the boom to the cockpit with a huge force that can knock you down. Be careful when on a running course.

Therefore, it is advisable to use a rig preventer (a line from the boom to any available cleat) when running the wind. The rig preventer helps in preventing accidents in case of a sudden jibe.

Close Reach

For a close reach point of sail, turn your cat slightly so that your heading is approximately 60-75° off the wind. Here you need to trim the sheets further to ensure that the sheets are more aligned with the body of your cat.

This is considered the most precise point of sail. To achieve this, you will turn your cat to about 90° of the wind. The sails are let out halfway, and at this point, your cat can offer you some really good speeds.

Close haul offers you a position in which you can sail as close as possible to the wind. It is about 45-60° off the wind. On a catamaran, especially a heavily loaded cruising catamaran this number is higher(not able to sail close to the wind), and on a performance cat, you can go a little closer to the wind.

Sail Upwind

When shifting to a close haul tack, sheet in the sails as you fully lower the centerboards or daggerboards. Continue steering as you observe the telltales and other wind indicators, being cautious not to pinch (sail too close to the wind).

Sailing Downwind

Under light or moderate winds, catamarans sail fast downwind.

Changing direction

If you want to sail in another direction, you can change your bearing through tacking or jibing. However, tacking is more popular among sailors than jibing.

For you to tack under moderate conditions, you must be sailing as close-hauled as possible. Additionally, you should center the traveler (a great sail-control used in fine-tuning the mainsail).

Based on the prevailing sea state, it might be necessary to briefly backwind the jibsail before sheeting in on the new direction. This will help the bow in making a successful turn through the wind.

For a successful tack, you should be quick in sheeting in the jibsail in the new direction. If you feel like your cat is going to stall, quickly release the traveler and the mainsheet as they will force the bow through the wind.

During this time, you should continue with the helm (tiller and other parts associated with the steering wheel) and steer all the way through the wind.

The rudder angle and the wind indicators will help you know when the tack has been completed, which prompts you to straighten the rudders. Your cat is now on a new tack.

Tacking vs Jibing explained

By jibing, you turn the cat away (bear away) from the wind by bringing the stern across the wind.

To begin with, centralize the traveler to allow for the mainsail to be centered. Before you start turning, sheet in the mainsheet hard so that when you bear away, your mainsail wont be swinging around and risk injury to equipment or crew.

Once the mainsail has back winded and changed direction so that you are on the opposite tack, quickly release the mainsheet to ensure that the power remains on as you prepare for the second part of the jibe.

Now back wind the jibsail and quickly release the windward jib sheet. Do this as you tighten the leeward jib sheet until the jibsail passes through the fore triangle and you can easily trim it using this same jib sheet. Release the windward jib sheet completely.

Sailing Safety

When learning how to sail a catamaran, it is also important to gain some tips on reefing , which is one of the most important sailing safety tips. Additionally, you should learn when your catamaran is in danger of capsizing.

Docking Your Catamaran

The way you dock in your catamaran depends on the side with which you are approaching the dock. For example, when docking to portside, your first part ashore will be the spring line leading forward from your port quarter (left rear part of your boat).

Once you arrive at the dock, put the port engine in slow reverse and the starboard one in forward mode. The different engine modes will help you place your catamaran close to the dock while allowing your spring line to be securely held and tightened. The spring line is the rope you tie to the dock from your catamaran to prevent the boat’s forward and backward movement.

Tightening the spring line helps hold you close and steady as you secure the bow and stern lines.

Consistency and practice will help you grasp large catamaran sailing concepts much faster.

Here’s a summary of the tips to help you in this course:

Familiarize yourself with parts of a catamaran before getting into the water.
Learn common sailing terms.
Learn how to prepare your catamaran through visual checks of rigging sails.
Practice hoisting and trimming the mainsail and the headsail.
Conquer your fears and face the actual challenge of sailing a catamaran. Be confident, practice consistently, and you will sail like a professional sooner than you expect.
Catamaran Parts Explained
Tacking vs Jibing?
Cruising World: How to Dock and Swing a Catamaran

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!