very small catamaran

13 Best Small Catamarans For Cruising 2024

The best small catamarans for cruising are affordable and comfortable, making great sailboats for a number of different purposes. If you’re looking for the best small catamarans to start your cruising life then look no further!

When searching for a catamaran for our adventures we scoured the internet for any and all information we could find on just about every size, shape, and model!

Although in the end, we opted for a bigger catamaran, in the hopes of having more family and friends on board, we did heavily research the best small catamarans as an option.

Each small catamaran has different pros and cons. As with every sailboat, there will be compromises, but hopefully, this post will help you firm up what you’re really looking for in a multihull and find the right smaller catamaran for you!

Here are what we consider the best small cruising catamarans out there, costing anywhere from $40,000 to $300,000. You can also read up on the average costs of sailboats here.

Why choose a small catamaran for cruising?

The downsides to small multihulls for cruisers

The best small catamarans for ocean sailing

The best small catamarans for coastal cruising

Why Choose A Small Catamaran For Cruising?

The main advantage to choosing a small catamaran for cruising has to be the cost. Not only are smaller sailboats cheaper to buy initially, but they are also cheaper to maintain and to dock in marinas or dry storage.

Why buy a small catamaran over a monohull? This isn’t the post to go into the pros and cons of multihulls vs monohulls, but a few of the main reasons you might prefer to buy a small cat over a bigger, cheaper monohull is the living space and the comfort underway and at anchor.

Living on a sailboat is very different from taking the boat out for a sporty sail every now and again. Having a catamaran over a monohull means you won’t be heeling or rolling at anchor half as much, you can leave out your coffee cup, and you have the space you need to spread out a little.

A small catamaran will enable the more comfortable lifestyle you’re seeking at a more reasonable price tag. So what’s not to love about small cruising multihulls?

The Downsides To Small Multihulls For Cruisers

Of course, just with everything in sailing, there are always compromises to be made when it comes to small multihulls.

One of the biggest downsides for cruisers is the weight issue smaller catamarans present. You won’t be able to carry half as much as you would on a larger catamaran or monohull, which might be a problem if you live onboard full time.

The other negative is that smaller boats usually aren’t quite as seaworthy as larger ones. You might find you’re limited to coastal cruising if you choose a small catamaran, so make sure you have your cruising intentions in mind before you buy.

Another big thing to look out for when it comes to choosing the right small cat for you, is the bridge deck clearance. This is often worse on smaller catamarans, and can cause nasty slamming in any sort of sea, both when sailing and at anchor.

With these downsides in mind, we’ve split this post into the best small catamarans for ocean sailing and the best for coastal cruising. Obviously this is a little subjective, as many people have sailed around the world in much smaller and less seaworthy vessels!

The Best Small Catamarans For Ocean Cruising

#1 wharram tiki.

• Suitable for: Bluewater sailing
• Fixed Keels
• Draft (max): 2.08′
• Engines: Single outboard, though some versions have twin inboards
• Price: Roughly $100,000

We have lusted after the Wharram catamarans since our adventures began and would have opted for one of these if we had found one for sale this side of the pond.

Designed by the legendary James Wharram, these small multihulls are pretty unique. They are based on the Polynesian catamaran design, and the plans enable you to self-build these boats if you have the time, money, and space for a project of this magnitude.

If you aren’t keen on taking on a project then you can commission a boat builder to complete the design for you, or buy one second-hand. The advantages of having one made yourself are that you can tweak things to your personal taste, and you can even contact the Wharrams themselves to see if they can adjust the designs for individual requests.

The Wharram catamarans have a lot of charm dues to their traditional design, and the old-fashioned appeal continues inside the boat too. You won’t find the same huge hull space as some of the modern design catamarans now have, but the outside entertainment space is perfect for entertaining.

These small catamarans don’t have an inside space across the hulls, so all of your inside living space is below. If you’re used to monohulls then this won’t be a problem but if you like the idea of a galley-up then these boats aren’t for you.

Wharram catamarans, especially the Tiki 38, have great reputations as around the world, bluewater boats. They have fantastic bridge deck clearance so slamming is minimum and they sail well.

Most models have a double cabin and two singles, a galley, a head, and a small salon area below. They are smaller catamarans than many newer 38ft multihulls but this does make them more affordable.

A big appeal for us was the fact these boats are designed to be self-made. Although a secondhand model could potentially come with a lot of problems (get a decent survey before you buy!) it does mean that almost everything onboard can be self-fixed. This is a huge bonus if you plan on sailing your small catamaran around the world.

Another thing we loved about these smaller catamarans is the fact they have outboard engines, which we felt would be easier to maintain and replace if necessary. This is a personal choice though so consider this before you get your heart set on one!

One of the downsides to the Tiki 38 is that there aren’t many of them around. These are unique boats and they don’t come on the market frequently. When they do, they tend to be scattered all over the world so you’ll have to be prepared to travel to find one!

#2 Prout Snowgoose 37 : Small Catamaran For Ocean Cruising

Prout catamarans are a popular choice for cruisers, and you’ll find many owners who have circumnavigated in them. The Snowgoose is no exception. Prout no longer exists as a company, as it was bought by Broadblue in the 90s.

Broadblue still makes catamarans today, and they have very similar features to the original Prouts, though obviously they are far fancier and have all the benefits of a more modern design!

The Snowgoose is a great small multihull to go for as you get quite a lot of space inside and out. We weren’t sure about the berth in the salon area, but it might make a great space for a baby or small child while underway!

The compromise in the Prout Snowgoose is the bridge deck clearance and this was something that put us off these smaller cruising catamarans. A low bridge deck clearance makes the boat slam in waves, both at anchor and underway.

#8 PDQ 36 : A Small Catamaran Without Too Much Slamming

• Suitable for: Bluewater
• Draft (max): 2.82′
• Engines: Twin inboard or outboard
• Price: Over $100,000

These small catamarans have an excellent reputation among cruisers because of their solid build and use of decent materials. They come with either outboard engines for coastal cruising or inboard engines designed to withstand offshore use.

If you like the sound of the PDQ 32 but need a little more room then you’ve got that here! It’s also a boat that people have crossed oceans in, though you might want to consider something more tried and tested like the Prout Snowgoose or the Wharram if you’re planning longer ocean sails.

The boat has three cabins, a galley, salon and head, but there’s a more spacious feel compared to the smaller model. Again, the bridge deck clearance is good so you shouldn’t experience too much slamming.

#9 Lagoon 380 : One Of The Most Popular Small Multihulls

• Fixed keels
• Engines:  twin diesel engines
• Price:  from $100,000, used

The Lagoon 380 is one of the most popular catamarans out there, and you’ve probably already spotted a lot of them in your search! This is a great option if modern cats appeal to you, as it’s pretty ‘with the times’ as far as smaller catamarans go!

There are lots of different layouts of this boat available all over the world. Some were built for charter with numerous berths and others were commissioned for couples or families with differing cabin and head options.

This is a proven catamaran from a reputable company, but obviously with so many of these boats out there, they come in a range of conditions. Make sure you get a thorough survey done before purchase!

Lagoon 37 TPI

• Draft (max): 4′
• Engines: Twin inboard diesels 
• Price: Over $100,000 USD 

This is the smallest catamaran built by Lagoon, and unfortunately there aren’t many of them out there. These boats were built mainly for the charter market, and have a smaller rig than some similar sized catamarans.

There are two big queen-size forward doubles port and starboard and a smaller double in the starboard hull aft. The galley and salon are designed to be simple and timeless, with none of the fancy trims you’ll find in the newer Lagoons.

As this boat was intended for charter it probably wouldn’t make a great ocean-going vessel. For starters, it isn’t designed to carry too much in the way of provisions. That’s not to say it won’t be a suitable bluewater boat with a few tweaks. Sailors who have circumnavigated in them have increased sail area and added folding props to get more speed from the vessel.

#11 Catalac 9M/30

• Draft (max): 2.5′
• Engines:  two outboard engines or one diesel engine
• Price:  from $50,000

The Catalac 9M is a little different to a lot of the catamarans on this list, as it was built for sailing in the North Sea! This is a great small catamaran for anyone wanting a boat built to be safe!

The bridge deck clearance is reasonable but the boat is light, which can make it more prone to slamming. The unique feature of this small sailboat is the hard dodger, designed as somewhere safe and dry to stand in bad weather.

It sails well, though like a lot of catamarans there is technique involved in getting it to tack smoothly. Once you’ve got the hang of though, this boat will make good speeds for its size.

The Best Small Catamarans For Coastal Cruising

• Suitable for: Coastal
• Draft (max): 3.62′
• Engines: Twin inboard
• Price: Up to $300,000 for a newer model

The Mahe 36 is the smallest of the Fountaine Pajot range, and these small catamarans can go for a heafty budget if you find a newer model!

This tiny multihull packs a lot into a small space, and because of its modern features, you’ll feel like you’re in a much bigger boat when you step aboard.

This boat is a fast mover, with an ok bridge clearance and some attractive upgrades compared to their last small catamaran design. Most notably the full-length hard top bimini which has the reviewers raving!

If you have the money to splash out on a newer, more expensive small catamaran then this should definitely be on your list to consider! Although they come with a large price tag, these small catamarans are considerably cheaper new than some of the bigger models.

#4 Gemini 105Mc (34ft)

Suitable for: Coastal cruising Centreboards Draft (max): 5′ Engines:  Single inboard Price:  from $80,000

The Gemini 105Mc is still in production in the US, which speaks to its popularity. Obviously if you buy new you’ll pay a much higher price! This is one of the smallest catamarans on the list, but it’s still a great option for coastal cruising (or some have even successfully completed ocean passages on them in relative comfort).

For a small multihull this boat sails pretty well and is fast for a coastal cruiser. The living space is decent with good headroom. It has two double cabins and a master bedroom, and the interior finishes are nice too.

A big negative to this boat is the bridge deck clearance which really isn’t amazing, but as we said at the start, there’s always a compromise! This is a sporty-looking little catamaran that’s a good contender for the top smallest catamarans out there!

#5 EndeavourCat 36

Suitable for: Coastal cruising Fixed keels Draft (max): 3′ Engines:  two inboard Price:  from $100

Designed and built by Endeavour Catamaran, these American built boats are great cruising catamarans. A big advantage to this little multihull is that it will fit into most monohull slips, so if you anticipate using marinas a lot then this might be the small catamaran for you!

This isn’t a slow boat, and owners report speeds of 8-9 knots. Bear in mind though that the narrow beam does make it less suitable for any offshore passages. It has good interior space with 6′ standing headroom throughout, three double cabins, and a decent-sized galley below. The salon area can seat 6 people comfortably.

This cat is great for single-handed sailors, as all the lines lead to the cockpit and the main and jib are completely self-tacking.

#6 Prout Event 34

Suitable for: Coastal/bluewater Fixed keels Draft (max): 2.72′ Engines:  Single inboard Price:  from $30,000

These multihulls are quite hard to find, but if you like the Snowgoose but are on a tighter budget then they might be just what you’re looking for. They share lots of features with the Snowgoose and look very similar, only smaller!

There are three cabins, one head, a salon, and a galley, only they are rather squeezed in compared to the larger model. Personally, we thought there was plenty of space for a smaller sailboat but it’s worth seeing them in person if you’re keen on this model.

They do have the same downsides as the Snowgoose though, with limited headroom and low bridge deck clearance. These boats are known for their slamming!

Coastal Engines:  twin outboards Price:  from $80,000, used

The PDQ 32 is a great budget option catamaran and should be cheap(ish) to buy second hand and maintain. With two outboards that are easy to replace on a smaller budget, you’re looking at some of the usual pinch points on a boat becoming a lot more affordable!

This small catamaran only has two cabins, so sleeps less than a lot of the boats on this list, but it is roomier than you’d imagine inside with a decent galley and salon area. It has decent bridge deck clearance so shouldn’t slam too much in any waves.

This isn’t a boat for longer passages as it is a little small (and perhaps underpowered) to face serious weather. If you’re searching for something to potter around in then this is a fun boat to sail and live in!

#12 Dean 365

Crew Application Freebie

Exactly what you need to write to get accepted as sailboat crew, and some top tips to help you have the adventure of a lifetime!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

• Suitable for: Coastal cruising
• Draft (max): 3′
• Engines:  one or two inboard
• Price:  from $45,000, used

These South African catamarans are great little coastal cruising catamarans that are hard to come by anywhere other than South Africa!

They’re pretty tiny, but have enough space for a galley, 3 or 4 cabins, and 1 or 2 heads. Some of the designs even have a bathtub, which speaks of their liveaboard suitability rather than their sail performance!

These boats are some of the smallest multihulls on this list, so don’t expect much in terms of headroom or bridge deck clearance. That being said, if you’re looking for a tiny catamaran to live on and you are prepared to compromise on sailing ability then these are a solid choice.

We have heard that the build quality can vary somewhat with these multihulls, so make sure you do some solid research and get a good surveyor when buying one of these. If you get a good version then they can make really solid boats.

#13 EndeavourCat 30

Suitable for: Coastal cruising Fixed keels Draft (max): 2.1′ Engines:  single or twin outboard Price:  from $70,000

This is a boat built for comfort over all else, so if you’re looking for a budget catamaran to live in then take a look at the endeavourcat 30. Some people don’t like the boxy design, but we quite liked how it looked in the water. I guess it’s personal taste!

This sailboat has two double cabins, a decent sized galley and salon for the size of the boat, and a head. The bridge deck clearance is low so that’s something to bear in mind before you buy, but the headroom is good (another reason why this would make a good liveaboard catamaran).

Hopefully this has given you some inspiration when searching for small catamarans for cruising, and helped you to find your dream boat!

We’re passionate about helping people live this incredible cruising lifestyle, so if you’re planning your dream liveaboard life make sure you check out our guide on how to run away to sea, with everything you could possibly need to know before, during, and after starting this adventure of a lifetime!

Similar Posts

13 Best Sailing Lifejackets 2024

What To Do When You’re Stuck At Home

How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic 2024?

Why Are Sailboat Sails White?

How Much Does It Really Cost To Live On Board A Sailboat?

The 55 Best Sailing Gifts For Sailors 2024

Such small mention of probably the best catamaran for overall cruising, focusing on ease of helming, speed and livability. Simple rig, great ergonomic features, style and definitely a pedigree on the water. The FP Mahe duo! Sea proven. Most delivered on their own bottoms from France. Wide beams and light. Beautiful interior arrangements and easy to maintain. I’m confused about so little mention of probably the best entry level and beyond real cruiser out there.

You forgot the edelcat 35. Great boats, and have circumnavigated!

I wonder why Broadblue 346 is not on the list.

Appreciate it’s a bit more expensive than most cats listed here but what about the Aventura 37? Technically a small cat but with ocean going abilities and an actual live aboard!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Boat Galley

making boat life better

10 Small Catamarans for Cruisers

Published on January 23, 2021 ; last updated on November 7, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock/Rick Marcarelli

I hear from many readers interested in small catamarans. Recently, the folks at www.CatamaranSite.com reached out to interview me about our experience cruising on our Gemini 105, Barefoot Gal and we began chatting about the various small catamarans on the market. One thing led to another and I’m pleased that Rick Marcarelli was willing to contribute a guest post sharing information comparing ten of the most popular small catamarans on the market.

When most buyers think of catamarans these days, they think of designs by Lagoon, Leopard, and Fountaine Pajot. 

These are all fine vessels. But they were built to cater to the charter markets. And so they may not be the best boats for long-term, liveaboard cruisers. 

Charter vs Liveaboard Cruising

The typical charter catamaran accommodates three or four couples sailing for one to two weeks in the Caribbean or Mediterranean. Usually they will provision once, sail a few daylight hours, eat out more than a typical cruiser, and anchor or moor for the night.

Compare that itinerary to the typical liveaboard cruiser. 

Most cruisers spend over 90% of their time at anchor or a dock. They provision repeatedly and usually for many months at a time. Many cruisers rarely eat out at restaurants. And most importantly, cruisers sometimes sail non-stop through the night for multiple days or weeks when making a passage between cruising destinations. 

The differences between charterers and cruisers cause them to desire different cabin layouts and amenities.

For charter boats, the focus is on several small cabins, each having its own accompanying head. They also have minimal storage space and enormous salons and cockpits. 

Long-term liveaboards generally desire a large master cabin, fewer heads, and significant storage space. They are usually willing to compromise space for superior sailing performance to reduce passage making days and increase safety by avoiding severe weather. 

Affordable Catamaran Market

Unfortunately for liveaboard cruisers interested in catamarans, the market is dominated by enormous, often very expensive, four cabin-four head charter models. In fact, our analysis of sales data suggests that about 38% of the market consists of Lagoon catamarans and over 50% are Lagoon or Fountaine Pajots. In addition, 90% of the market consists of catamarans over 38 feet in length. Please see the infographic. 

While a majority of catamarans for sale are large, expensive, charter catamarans, our site’s traffic suggests that 40% of buyers are looking for smaller, simpler, affordable catamarans under 38 feet in length. 

These are buyers like Carolyn was when she purchased S/V Barefoot Gal . And they are buyers who may be like you and are looking for something affordable that is suited to your liveaboard needs. 

Modest Cats for Cruisers

Consider widening your net. Here are some additional models to consider in your search:

Prout 37 Snowgoose

• Cruising Grounds: Bluewater
• Underbody: Fixed Keels
• Draft (max): 2.08′
• Mast Height: 40’ (Standard) / 50’ (Elite)
• Bridgedeck Clearance: Average
• Layouts: 3 cabins, 1 head; galley down; open version has larger salon while private stateroom has larger master cabin
• Speed: Slow
• Engines: Usually single outdrive; rare versions have twin inboards
• Availability: Relatively common all over the world
• Ballpark Price: Around $100,000 USD

• Cruising Grounds: Built for North Sea
• Draft (max): 2.5′
• Mast Height: tabernacle mast
• Bridgedeck Clearance: Above Average
• Layouts: 3 cabins, 1 head; galley down
• Engines: Single gas outboard or twin inboard diesels
• Availability: Somewhat rare; usually a couple on the market or 8M sister ship; more in Europe
• Ballpark Price: Under $50,000 USD

Lagoon 37 TPI

• Draft (max): 4′
• Mast Height: 55’
• Layouts: 3 or 4 cabin; 2 heads; galley down
• Speed: Fast 
• Engines: Twin inboard diesels 
• Availability: Very rare; cult classic 
• Ballpark Price: Over $100,000 USD 

PDQ 36 Capella

• Draft (max): 2.82′
• Mast Height: 47’ (Standard) or 55’ (LRC)
• Layouts: 2 or 3 cabin; 1 or 2 heads; galley down
• Engines: Single gas outboard, twin gas outboard, or twin diesel inboard
• Availability: Usually a few on the market and more likely in USA
• Ballpark Price: Over $100,000 USD

Seawind 1000

• Draft (max): 3.2′
• Mast Height: 47’
• Layouts: 4 cabins; 1 head; galley down
• Speed: Fast
• Engines: Twin gas outboard
• Availability: Usually a few for sale; newer models still being built; originally built in Australia
• Ballpark Price: Over $150,000 USD

• Cruising Grounds: Coastal
• Draft (max): 3.35′
• Layouts: 4 cabins or 2 cabin Maestro; 2 head; galley up
• Engines: Twin inboard diesels with saildrives
• Availability: Usually a couple on the market often in Caribbean
• Ballpark Price: Around $150,000 USD

Endeavour 36

• Draft (max): 2′ 9″
• Layouts: 3 cabin; galley down
• Engines: Twin inboard diesels
• Availability: Rare and likely in the USA

• Draft (max): 3.62′
• Mast Height: 55′
• Layouts: 3 cabin / 1 head; 2 cabin / 2 head; galley up
• Availability: More common especially in Caribbean
• Ballpark Price: Newer version up to $300,000 USD
• Underbody: Centerboards
• Draft (max): 5′
• Mast Height: 47’ (M) or 48’ (MC)
• Bridgedeck Clearance: Below Average
• Layouts: 3 cabin; 1 head; galley down but open
• Engines: Single inboard diesel with retractable outdrive
• Availability: Common especially in the USA

• Draft (max): 3′
• Mast Height: 46′
• Layouts: 4 cabin / 1 head; 3 cabin / 2 head; galley down; bathtubs on some
• Engines: Single or twin inboard diesels
• Availability: Rare model
• Ballpark Price: Around $50,000 USD

Rick Marcarelli is the webmaster of CatamaranSite.com featuring cruising catamarans for sale by owner as well as educational articles. Rick is the owner of S/V Catalpa , a Catalac 8M based out of Merritt Island, Florida. The site also functions as the owner’s website for Catalac catamarans. If you are planning on buying a catamaran, CatamaranSite.com might save you a considerable amount of money and lead to years of happy sailing.

And check out our other courses and products

Find this helpful? Share and save:

• Facebook 359
• Pinterest 198

Reader Interactions

January 31, 2021 at 5:58 pm

I would think draft on the fixed keel boats would be important to many who are considering cats.

Carolyn Shearlock says

February 1, 2021 at 12:49 pm

I’ll see if we can perhaps add that.

Richard says

February 9, 2021 at 11:03 am

Good addition. I have provided drafts to Carolyn, so please watch this article for that to be updated. Any questions or additional information you would like added please comment again.

Drew Frye says

February 20, 2021 at 11:46 am

The best way to look at speed ratings is the PHRF rating or other handicaps. I used to own a PDQ 32 and never found a Gemini I couldn’t pass rather easily on autopilot, so I don’t think it rates slow if well handled. Granted, mine was turboed a bit and carried a 120 rating.

Florida ratings, according to US Sailing

PDQ 32 135 Seawind 1000 137 PDQ 36 156 Gemini 105 MC 168 Snowgoose 250 The others rate around 130-145

And of course, this is only fast or slow within the class. Fast multihulls cruising (?) multihulls rate 0-60.

February 21, 2021 at 7:59 am

Thanks! Good info.

September 10, 2023 at 5:55 am

I have an Edel 35′. For their price, they are a good option, for this size of catamaran. They are not slow, by any means. Disadvantage: clearance under nacelle.

Erin Michaud says

February 23, 2021 at 10:22 am

Great info, we met an owner of a Catalac 9M in Key West Garrison Bight Marina a couple of weeks ago. His name is Eric & he moved his boat to the Boca Chica Navy Marina. I will send the contact info for Rick to him specifically for the Catalac boats! Thanks!

February 24, 2021 at 5:54 am

Catalacs are great boats. We saw a couple for sale around the time we bought Barefoot Gal but they were sold the same day they were listed so we didn’t get to even look at them.

January 6, 2022 at 11:32 am

Hello. I was wondering if you can identify this open catamaran which boasts a GRP cockpit with seating?

https://imgur.com/gallery/2wzUJmR

Bruce Bayne says

February 20, 2022 at 9:57 am

I noticed that the Privilege 37 and 39 were not mentioned in your 10 list of catamarans. Is there a reason? How do they stack up to the others with regard to speed and bridgedeck clearance?

June 6, 2022 at 10:44 am

Rayma Church says

July 31, 2024 at 7:27 pm

Last November we purchased a Fontaine Pajot power cat (MY4s) that is 37′ long and has a beam of 16.8″, with a draft of 2.6″ and a height of 15′ but is tall inside for my 6’5″ partner without having to hunch over. This means we can go under the lowest bridges on the Great Lakes leg of the Loop, although we do not have a fly bridge. This is a new model (made its debut in 2023) and we plan to start the Great Lakes leg in June 2025 – the boat is being handed over to us in Annapolis in October. One of the reasons we selected this boat is because of the need for interior height but exterior “shortness” to get under the bridges. Also, this model has access on both sides of the boat that are about 18″ wide – another safety feature as my 6’5″ man has size 14 feet! We have been receiving your emails for the last 9 months or so in preparation for so many things boat related. We are both so happy to crib off of your experience rather than learn through adversity! Thanks, rayma

August 1, 2024 at 12:26 pm

Great choice of boat for the Loop!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Each week you’ll get:

• Tips from Carolyn • New articles & podcasts • Popular articles you may have missed • Totally FREE – one email a week

SUBSCRIBE NOW

• Questions? Click to Email Me
• Visit Our Store

Sign up newsletter

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Country of residence * Country of residence * Afghanistan Aland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruban Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium(Dutch) Belgium(French) Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory British Virgin Islands Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea GuineaBissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island And McDonald Islands Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg(French) Luxembourg(German) Macao Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Ireland Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Helena Saint Kitts And Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Pierre And Miquelon Saint Vincent And The Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome And Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia And The South Sandwich Islands South Korea Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard And Jan Mayen Swaziland Sweden Switzerland(French) Switzerland(German) Switzerland(Italian) Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand The Democratic Republic Of Congo Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks And Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States United States Minor Outlying Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands Wallis And Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Country of residence * Afghanistan Aland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruban Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium(Dutch) Belgium(French) Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory British Virgin Islands Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea GuineaBissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island And McDonald Islands Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg(French) Luxembourg(German) Macao Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Ireland Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Helena Saint Kitts And Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Pierre And Miquelon Saint Vincent And The Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome And Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia And The South Sandwich Islands South Korea Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard And Jan Mayen Swaziland Sweden Switzerland(French) Switzerland(German) Switzerland(Italian) Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand The Democratic Republic Of Congo Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks And Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States United States Minor Outlying Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands Wallis And Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe
• US State * US State * Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming US State * Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
• France Regions * France Regions * Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Brittany Centre-Val de Loire Corsica Grand Est Hauts-de-France Paris Region Normandie Nouvelle-Aquitaine Occitanie Pays de la Loire Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur Guadeloupe French Guiana Martinique Mayotte Réunion France Regions * Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Brittany Centre-Val de Loire Corsica Grand Est Hauts-de-France Paris Region Normandie Nouvelle-Aquitaine Occitanie Pays de la Loire Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur Guadeloupe French Guiana Martinique Mayotte Réunion
• I would like to receive special offers and boat show invites from Dream Yacht Sales
• Consent * * I have read Privacy Policy and agree that my personal data will be processed * *
• Request Type
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Small Catamaran Comparison: Excess 11 vs. Bali Catsmart

The size of catamarans has seen an increase over the years, with boats measuring 45′ now considered average-sized and prices soaring to reach one million euros and more… It’s almost as if the shipyards have forgotten the success of smaller catamarans like the Lagoon 380 and its 800 units built.

Almost simultaneously, two shipyards have revived these smaller sized boats with very different approaches: the Excess 11 and the Bali Catsmart .

Different because the catamaran landscape includes two major types of boats – the ultra-light and very sporty catamarans, and the very well-equipped boats, which are more comfort-orientated. The Excess 11 and the Catsmart position themselves between these two extremes, each by using a different yet appealing recipe to create affordable four-cabin catamarans.

Excess 11, a sailors’ catamaran

Honor to the older of the two, the Excess 11, which first showcased at the Dusseldorf Boot 2020 boat show. Excess is a recent brand from the Beneteau group aimed at producing lighter, simpler catamarans, offering more sailing sensations than their heavy Lagoon counterparts.

Excess catamarans, while they sail well, are not designed for racing or regattas – they are not high-performance vessels that tolerate no errors. Rather, they are comfortable cruising catamarans, but with a sporty look, and capable of offering great sailing sensations. While large catamarans with a hydraulic steering system have other advantages, they tend to provide little more navigating pleasure than that of a heavy machine carving its way through the waves.

On the Excess, special care has been taken to satisfy the sailing enthusiast. Very often, and we see this at our bases every season, sailing enthusiasts switch to catamarans for family reasons. This change is made at the sacrifice of the very soul of sailing, the pleasure of steering a well-adjusted sailboat and feeling the sensations of its motion. Several technical solutions have been adopted to improve its handling. With an Excess, there is no sacrifice!

This is especially true for the Excess 11, as the first two models from Excess (12 and 15) used the hulls of a Lagoon catamaran . The Excess 11 is the first boat in the range to be built on its own molds.

Excess 11, a sporty look

It is hard not to succumb to the charm of this catamaran when you see it for the first time. With its massive bulging bows, a set-back cockpit, a long roof overhang, and the mast positioned forward of the cockpit, it has a rather pleasant roadster-like appearance. It’s a boat that captures attention, especially since its hull has immediately recognizable features and it can be delivered in gray. The cockpit position, which suits it so well, is dictated purely by sailing considerations.

By moving the cockpit aft, the mast could be moved forward on the main beam (the primary structural component of the boat that connects the two hulls) without the mast’s support interfering with the interior space. With a forward mast, you gain in mainsail area and therefore in power and speed. The boat also comes with a self-tacking jib, making it easy to handle with a reduced crew, and has a bowsprit designed to accommodate a code sail.

This design is also reflected in the two steering stations, which are located at the very rear of each hull, in a position reminiscent of monohulls. From the rear, you can see the tips of the hulls and the sails, but you are also close to the boat’s social: the cockpit and the saloon. The skipper is no longer isolated, alone on the flybridge.

A catamaran full of sailing-oriented details

Each steering station is equipped with a wheel, positioned just like on a monohull, close to the pulleys of each rudder. The steering of these boats is carried out by means of Dyneema lines. These ultra-solid textile tiller ropes are relatively short, and offer the skipper sailing sensations very close to those experienced on a monohull. These short tiller ropes are not used on larger boats, which prefer hydraulic or cable-controlled actuators – both of which completely eliminate the steering feedback.

In the front, the path of the anchor chain and the davit have been moved slightly off-centre to clear the bowsprit, intended to be used with a code zero (not present on the charter/rental version).

The shipyard has done a fine job with its supplier of lines and ropes. Halyards, ropes, reefing lines, tiller ropes and moorings are all braided in a range of assorted colors, but are made in such a way as to remain distinguishable at a glance. Inside, this work is also found on the drawer handles made of cordage.

About the space

Inside, there is headroom of more than 2 1⁄2-feet throughout. In the cockpit, there is the galley, a dining table and a navigation table. The atmosphere is bright, with whites, grey floors and minimal use of wood.

In the hulls, there are three or four cabins, whose aft cabins stand out due to their large 6.5×6.5-foot beds! The cabins share a bathroom per hull.

Excess 11 in three figures: 11.33 m / 37.17 ft overall length, 6.59 m / 21.62 ft beam, 9 tons and 77 m2 / 828.52 ft2 of upwind sail area.

Bali Catsmart

A Bali powerhouse of 36 feet When Bali announced its Catsmart, the word on the docks was that a wave of panic rose at Lagoon, which had no such project in the pipeline…

The Catsmart is also a 36-foot catamaran, whose configuration is totally different from that of the Excess. Here, Bali has incorporated almost all the design strengths of its other models to create a concentrated vessel of smaller size. The price, fully equipped, is also modest, at less than €500,000.

And Bali catamarans have no shortage of strengths. It is these distinctive elements of comfort and differentiation that have contributed so much to the lightning-fast success of this range of cruising catamarans.

A solid forward deck and XXL sunbeds

Up front, where competitors install trampolines, Bali decks the entire forward section. This approach offers various advantages despite what the competition (may) say about the additional weight at the front. It works well to provide additional outdoor space with a table where the entire crew can gather.

A table, but also an enormous sunbathing area, covered with cushions designed to stay in place while sailing. This forward arrangement is particularly pleasant when cruising. Early in the morning while the sun is still low it’s a pleasure to have an open-air meal, just like dining on a terrace.

At lunch and in the evening, you can equally enjoy the shelter of the roof and its overhang to escape the sun.

A fused cockpit-saloon area

In the aft cockpit area is merged seamlessly with the saloon thanks to the tilting rear wall, which allows the boat to be used “fully open air” in temperate weather, or closed, after the sun sets. This clever combination allows the use of a single, larger table at this place, with a comfortable sofa opposite. Inside, the kitchen faces the direction of sailing and occupies the entire width of the boat.

Bali Catsmart’s pivoting rear door lends great versatility to its common areas. No redundant furniture: the use of space is maximised. Operating the door is very easy, and its operation is similar to that of a garage door. The comparison ends there though, as the Catsmart’s door is insulated and coated with a gel coat.

The forward-facing kitchen is pleasant for the cook, who can quickly lose sight of his recipes if he lets himself get caught up in the view. This configuration is made possible by the absence of a front door, which is the only Bali detail that the shipyard could not incorporate into the highly successful Catsmart.

Both helm stations are placed, as on the Excess, at the very back of the hulls. The starboard station is the primary one with two winches. The winch for the mainsail is located aft and handles the mainsail traveler and the headsail sheet (self-tacking), while the other winch manages the reefs and halyards. Just in front of the console, the headsail furler block is within easy reach of the helmsman. The port station has only one winch, used for the topping lift and a reefing line.

Bright cabins

Bali Catsmart in four figures: 11.78 m / 38.65 ft overall length, 6.46 m / 21.19 ft beam, 8.4 tons and 99 m2 / 1065.24 ft2 of upwind sail area

The choice is yours between the Bali Catsmart and the Beneteau Excess 11, two sailboats that are very similar in terms of specifications (length, width, weight, sail area) but very different in terms of onboard experience. Two very successful concepts, each of which took their advantages to the extreme to create two very beautiful boats.

It’s up to you to choose the one that suits you best!

_____________________________

Interested in learning more about yacht ownership? Dream Yacht Sales has you covered with the widest choice of yachts and charter management programs .

Our expert yacht consultants can explain your options in depth and help you through the purchase process, from choosing a yacht that is right for you, to finding the best financing. Get in touch today !

Related Articles

Excess catamaran charter vacations: A perfect opportunity for aspiring yacht owners

Discover the Future of Sailing at the French Shipyards Open Days in June

Best Small Catamaran: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Vessel

by Emma Sullivan | Aug 12, 2023 | Sailboat Gear and Equipment

Short answer: Best small catamaran

The best small catamaran refers to the renowned Hobie 16. With its ease of use, versatility, and competitive performance in various conditions, it has become a favorite among sailors worldwide. Its affordability, durability, and impressive speed make it a top choice for sailing enthusiasts looking for a thrilling experience on the water .

Finding the Best Small Catamaran: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Vessel

Are you on the hunt for the best small catamaran to take your sailing adventures to new heights? Look no further! This guide is here to help you navigate through the vast ocean of choices and land on the perfect vessel that suits your needs, preferences, and dreams.

Choosing a catamaran can be an exhilarating experience. These sleek twin-hulled yachts offer stability, spaciousness, and speed that can make any sailor’s heart skip a beat. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a newbie in the world of boating, finding the right small catamaran can significantly enhance your sailing experience.

Firstly, let’s delve into what makes small catamarans so special. Unlike their monohull counterparts, catamarans sit atop two hulls that provide exceptional stability . This feature makes them less prone to tipping over in rough waters and allows for comfortable sailing even in choppy conditions. Additionally, their dual hull design translates into increased living space onboard without compromising performance.

When searching for your dream small catamaran , there are several crucial factors to consider. The first and perhaps most important consideration is size. Small catamarans typically range from 35 to 45 feet in length. Assessing how many people will usually be on board and determining your desired level of comfort will aid in deciding the ideal size for your adventures at sea.

Next up is cost. Catamarans tend to be more expensive than monohulls due to their enhanced features and larger living space. However, don’t let this deter you; there are options available within every budget range. It’s essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality while keeping in mind that maintenance costs should also be factored into your decision-making process.

Another vital aspect is performance. Speed enthusiasts may lean towards smaller high-performance catamarans designed primarily for racing purposes. Such vessels offer thrilling speed but might compromise some creature comforts compared to cruising-oriented catamarans. On the other hand, leisure seekers might prioritize comfort and ample living space for extended trips or entertaining guests.

If you plan on sailing in specific regions or have certain routes in mind, it’s wise to consider the catamaran’s draft. A shallow draft allows access to shallower anchorages and secluded coves that deeper-drafted vessels may not reach. Furthermore, the boat’s beam should be evaluated—more substantial beams provide more stability but might limit access to marinas with narrow slips.

Comfort is king when it comes to small catamarans . Features such as spacious cabins, numerous windows offering panoramic views, well-designed layouts, and ergonomic utilization of onboard space can transform your sailing experience into a five-star vacation. Consider whether you prefer an open-plan concept or desire separate private spaces for each cabin.

Storage capacity is often overlooked but can heavily impact long-term liveability. Well-designed storage compartments will help keep your vessel organized and clutter-free during extended sailing trips. Hidden stowage areas are also beneficial for storing essential equipment like life jackets, water toys, snorkeling gear, and fishing tackle neatly out of sight.

Lastly, don’t forget about aesthetics! After all, your catamaran should reflect your personality on the water . From sleek modern designs to classic nautical styles, there’s a vast array of options available to suit all tastes.

Ultimately, finding the best small catamaran requires careful consideration of size, cost, performance, draft requirements, comfort factors such as layout and storage capacity while staying true to your personal style preferences. By meticulously examining these key elements and taking our guide as a compass on your journey towards choosing the perfect vessel for your adventures at sea, you’re sure to find yourself sailing smoothly into an unforgettable voyage aboard your dream small catamaran!

How to Select the Best Small Catamaran for Your Adventure

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure on the open waters? If so, choosing the best small catamaran for your journey is crucial. With so many options available in the market, selecting the perfect vessel can be overwhelming. However, fear not! We have compiled some expert tips to simplify this process and ensure you find the catamaran that meets all your adventurous needs.

1. Determine Your Adventure Style: Before diving into the world of catamarans, reflect on your adventure style. Are you an adrenaline junkie seeking high-speed sailing ? Or perhaps you prefer a more leisurely cruise? Identifying your preferences will help narrow down your options and make future decision-making a breeze.

2. Consider Size and Capacity: When it comes to small catamarans, size does matter! Assess how many passengers will join you on board regularly and evaluate your storage needs. If comfort is crucial, opt for a larger model with spacious cabins and lounging areas. Conversely, if versatility is key, smaller vessels may offer better maneuverability.

3. Evaluate Hull Design: The hull design significantly impacts how your catamaran performs in various conditions. Whether you intend to sail across calm seas or brave choppy waters, there are different hull designs tailored to specific environments. Flat-bottomed hulls maximize stability in calmer conditions while V-shaped or round-bilged hulls excel at handling rougher waters.

4. Assess Sailing Performance: If speed and agility are top priorities for you, examining a catamaran’s sailing performance is essential . Factors such as sail area, rigging options, keel design, and displacement greatly influence a vessel’s ability to cut through water efficiently. Seek out models designed for optimal speed if you crave an exhilarating experience.

5. Examine Interior Layout: Remember that comfort plays an integral role in any adventure! Pay attention to the interior layout of potential catamarans as it can impact your overall enjoyment. Look for well-designed cabins, spacious saloons, and functional galley areas that meet your needs during extended journeys.

6. Consider Maintenance Needs: Owning a catamaran requires regular maintenance to keep it in top-notch condition. Before making a purchase, evaluate the time and effort you are willing to invest in maintaining your vessel. Fiberglass hulls tend to be more manageable than wooden ones, whereas some materials may require extra care under specific weather conditions .

7. Research Manufacturer Reputation: To ensure a high-quality purchase, take the time to research various manufacturers’ reputations. Read reviews from fellow catamaran enthusiasts online and consult with experts in the boating community. Investing in a respected brand can provide peace of mind regarding your catamaran’s durability and performance .

8. Weigh Your Budget: Lastly, but certainly not least, consider your budget carefully. Catamarans vary drastically in price range depending on size, features, and build quality. Determine how much you are willing to spend before beginning your search, as this will prevent disappointment when encountering models outside your financial reach.

By systematically considering these factors while selecting the best small catamaran for your adventure, you can be confident that you’re making an informed decision tailored to your preferences and requirements. So buckle up (or rather “harness yourself into”) as you prepare for an exciting journey of endless possibilities on the open waters ! Happy sailing!

The Ultimate Step-by-Step Process for Buying the Best Small Catamaran

Are you dreaming of hitting the open waters in your very own small catamaran? This versatile and exciting watercraft offers a unique sailing experience that’s hard to beat. But before you set sail, it’s essential to understand the step-by-step process for buying the best small catamaran that perfectly suits your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each stage, providing professional advice along with a touch of wit and cleverness.

1. Define Your Needs: Before embarking on this catamaran-buying journey, take a moment to assess your requirements. Are you an experienced sailor looking for a high-performance racing catamaran , or are you more interested in leisurely cruising with family and friends? Determining your primary purpose will help narrow down your options.

2. Research Thoroughly: Knowledge is power when it comes to purchasing any significant investment, including a small catamaran. Dive into extensive research on different brands, models, and sizes available in the market. Read reviews from both professionals and fellow sailors alike to gain valuable insights.

3. Set Your Budget: Catamarans come in various price ranges, so establishing a realistic budget is crucial. Consider not only the initial purchase cost but also maintenance expenses such as storage fees, insurance premiums, repairs, and even potential upgrades over time. Remember that quality often trumps price when it comes to boats.

4. Attend Boat Shows: Nothing beats getting up close and personal with numerous small catamarans at boat shows or expos. These events bring together experts in the field who can give you invaluable advice while showcasing their latest models. Take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions and test out different options hands-on.

5. Connect with Experts: Find reputable boat dealerships or brokers specializing in small catamarans that can guide you throughout the buying process. Reach out to these professionals who possess extensive knowledge on various models and specifications tailored specifically to your needs. They can provide invaluable insights and assist you in making an informed decision.

6. Inspect and Survey: Once you’ve identified a potential small catamaran , it’s time to schedule a thorough inspection and survey. Hire a professional marine surveyor who can assess the overall condition of the vessel, including its structural integrity, mechanical systems, and any potential concerns that may impact your purchase decision.

7. Sea Trial: Test before you invest! Ask for a sea trial to experience firsthand how the small catamaran handles on the water. This opportunity allows you to assess its performance, maneuverability, and comfort level while sailing different conditions. It’s like taking your potential new companion out for a “test drive.”

8. Negotiate with Confidence: Armed with knowledge from your research and supported by insights from experts, negotiate the best price possible. Be confident in presenting any deficiencies discovered during inspections/surveys as bargaining points. Demonstrate your willingness to proceed only if certain conditions are met.

9. Complete Documentation: After reaching an agreement with the seller, ensure that all necessary paperwork is duly completed, including transfer of ownership certificates, warranties (if applicable), insurance documents, maintenance logs, and any other relevant paperwork required by maritime authorities or lending institutions if financing is involved.

10. Prep for Adventure: Congratulations! You’ve just purchased the best small catamaran that aligns perfectly with your desires and aspirations! Take some time to familiarize yourself thoroughly with all onboard systems before setting sail on your first grand adventure as captain of your own ship.

By following this ultimate step-by-step process for buying the best small catamaran, you’ll embark on an exciting journey towards becoming a proud owner of this fantastic watercraft—ready to explore new horizons while enjoying endless hours of exhilarating entertainment on the open seas! Safe travels and smooth sailing ahead!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Small Catamarans Answered

Are you passionate about sailing? Are you considering buying a small catamaran , but have some questions before taking the plunge? Look no further! We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the best small catamarans and provided detailed, professional, witty, and clever answers to help you make an informed decision. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the world of small catamarans together!

Q: What makes a catamaran different from a traditional sailboat ? A: Ah, the eternal question! Catamarans boast not one, but two hulls – connected by a spacious deck in the middle. This unique design grants stability in rough waters that leaves monohulls green with envy. With two hulls cutting through the waves instead of plowing through like their single-hulled counterparts do, catamarans offer superior speed and maneuverability. Oh, did we mention they also provide ample room for sunbathing or hosting lively parties? Talk about sailing in style!

Q: Why should I opt for a small catamaran instead of a larger one? A: Size isn’t everything, my friend! While large catamarans may dazzle with their expansive living areas and luxurious amenities for longer voyages or accommodating larger crews, smaller ones have undeniable perks too. They are more affordable (saving those hard-earned doubloons), easier to handle when solo sailing (keeping stress levels at bay), and can access marinas or anchorages where larger vessels might fear to tread (unlocking hidden gems along your journey). Small is mighty in the world of catamarans!

Q: Can I take my furry friend on board a small catamaran? A: Absolutely! Unlike some traditional sailboats that lack space for our four-legged companions to strut their stuff without feeling cramped, small catamarans offer plenty of room for both human and feline adventurers. With spacious decks providing enough space for your feline friend to roam and find the perfect sunbathing spot, they’ll be purring with joy as you sail into new horizons together. Just make sure to bring a scratching post – those sails are tempting!

Q: What about performance? Are small catamarans fast? A: Speed demons rejoice! Small catamarans are renowned for their impressive speeds, thanks to their sleek hulls that slice through the water like a knife through butter. While larger catamarans deliver exceptional cruising speeds, smaller ones take the crown in terms of nimbleness and agility. Whether you’re engaged in competitive racing or just seeking the thrill of slicing through the waves, these small wonders won’t disappoint. Be prepared to leave monohulls trailing in your wake!

Q: Are small catamarans suitable for overnight stays or longer trips? A: Absolutely! While small catamarans may not offer the palatial cabins of their larger counterparts, they certainly pack a punch when it comes to coziness and functionality. With snug berths tucked away below deck, compact but functional galleys for culinary adventures, and ample storage space for all your nautical necessities, overnight stays or extended trips are entirely feasible. Just remember to embrace minimalist packing – every square inch counts!

There you have it – some frequently asked questions about the best small catamarans answered in detailed professional yet witty and clever explanations. We hope these insights have shed light on the allure of small catamarans and reassured any doubts you may have had. So raise your anchor and set sail on a small but mighty adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories on the high seas!

Exploring the Top Features of the Best Small Catamarans on the Market

Title: Getting Nautical: Unveiling the Epitome of Small Catamarans – A Guide to Their Top Features

Introduction: Ahoy there, fellow seafarers! Picture yourself gliding effortlessly across crystal-clear waters, with the gentle caress of the ocean breeze accompanying your every move. If you are as enamored with the relaxing allure of sailing as we are, then you’ll undoubtedly be enthralled by our deep dive into the top features of the best small catamarans currently gracing the market. So, batten down the hatches and embark on this witty and clever exploration of these maritime marvels!

1. Stability and Sailing Comfort: If stability is your mantra for an impeccable sailing experience, small catamarans are here to answer your prayers. With their dual hull design, they provide unparalleled balance, offering a smoother ride even in choppy waters. Say goodbye to relentless rocking and hello to steady seas! Maneuvering through waves becomes a breeze aboard these agile vessels.

2. Spaciousness and Social Engagement: Leave claustrophobia stranded ashore; small catamarans boast surprising roominess despite their compact size. Unlike their monohull counterparts that confine you within cramped spaces below deck, modern catamarans thoughtfully utilize each hull to create ample living areas both above and below deck. Enjoy generous storage solutions, spacious cabins with comfortable beds for extended adventures, and saloons built for socializing around a sumptuous meal.

3. Agility in Shallow Waters: Ever dreamt of exploring hidden coves or secret lagoons where traditional boats dare not venture? Well, look no further than small catamarans! Thanks to their shallow draft capabilities – a testament to their efficient hull design – these nimble craft elegantly glide through shallow waters without fear of getting grounded or losing precious cruising time.

4. Performance Par Excellence: While small catamarans might not rival the speed of America’s Cup yachts, they certainly offer an exhilarating performance of their own. Equipped with twin rigs designed for efficient sailing, these agile vessels capture the breeze like none other. Be prepared to reach your destination faster than you ever imagined while relishing in smooth sailing that leaves a monohull’s leaning antics miles behind.

5. Safety is Anchored: Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just setting off on your maiden voyage, safety should always be at the forefront of your mind. Thankfully, small catamarans prioritize this aspect with buoyancy unparalleled by other sailboat types . The presence of multiple hulls drastically reduces the risk of capsizing and ensures an ultimate peace of mind even when Mother Nature decides to test your mettle.

6. Easy Handling with Less Hassle: Gone are the days of complex maneuvers requiring a crew that could rival Captain Jack Sparrow’s gang. Small catamarans grant sailors a refreshing sense of independence by allowing easy handling without compromising on functionality and pleasure. From docking maneuvers to sail control systems within arm’s reach, these gems provide an unrivaled ease-of-use that allows every aspiring seafarer to become captain of their own ship!

Conclusion: There you have it; we’ve unfurled the sails and revealed why small catamarans hold such appeal in today’s boating market! With remarkable stability, spaciousness, agility, enhanced performance, unrivaled safety features, and straightforward handling capabilities – these maritime wonders have effortlessly cemented their place as some of the finest vessels around. So go forth and embrace the aquatic explorations that await you aboard one of these marvelous creations; set sail with confidence knowing you are well-versed in the top features defining the best small catamarans on the market!

Why a Small Catamaran is Your Best Choice for Sailing Excursions

When it comes to setting sail on the open waters, there are plenty of options available. From luxurious yachts to sleek monohulls, the choices can be overwhelming. However, if you’re looking for an experience that combines performance, versatility, and unbridled excitement, a small catamaran is undoubtedly your best choice. Let’s dive into why these vessels excel and why they’ll make your sailing excursions unforgettable.

Performance at its Finest One of the primary reasons a small catamaran reigns supreme in the sailing world is its exceptional performance characteristics. Catamarans feature two hulls connected by a bridge deck – this design delivers unprecedented stability and speed, ensuring smooth journeys even in rough conditions. With multiple hulls slicing through the water instead of one keel, catamarans offer reduced resistance and increased efficiency compared to monohulls.

Ease of Handling Why struggle with complex maneuvers when you can effortlessly handle a small catamaran? These nifty vessels are famous for their ease of use as they require minimal effort to maneuver. With two engines providing propulsion power, docking becomes a breeze for even the most novice sailor . Additionally, their shallow draft allows easy access to shallower coves and hidden gems that larger boats simply cannot reach.

Space Galore Do you prefer having ample space on board? Look no further than a small catamaran! These beauties are known for providing generous deck space both above and below decks. Whether you want to bask in the sun or entertain guests with delightful onboard BBQ parties, a catamaran offers abundant room for all your activities without compromising comfort or safety. Say goodbye to cramped quarters typical of monohull vessels!

Stability & Safety Safety should always be paramount when choosing any sailing vessel – another area where small catamarans truly shine. Thanks to their dual-hull design, these boats offer exceptional stability, minimizing the risk of capsizing. Whether you’re sailing on calm waters or facing choppier conditions, you can rest assured that a small catamaran will keep you steady and safe. This stability also makes them an excellent choice for families or those prone to seasickness.

Versatile Adventures When it comes to versatility, small catamarans are unrivaled. Their agility allows for dynamic experiences both on and off the water. Sailing enthusiasts can partake in thrilling regattas, explore hidden coves, embark on leisurely sunset cruises, or even try their hand at fishing just inches above the waterline! With a small catamaran as your vessel of choice, the possibilities are limitless.

Aesthetically Pleasing Besides all its practical benefits, a small catamaran also delivers on aesthetics. These sleek vessels command attention with their futuristic designs and breathtaking beauty. The sight of two hulls gracefully gliding through the water is sure to turn heads and elicit admiration from fellow sailors and beachgoers alike. So why settle for anything less when you can sail in style?

In conclusion, if you’re seeking a sailing adventure packed with performance, ease of handling, ample space, stability & safety features, versatility for exciting escapades, and unmatched visual appeal – look no further than a small catamaran. Its unique attributes make it the hands-down winner among sailing options. So brace yourself – prepare to embark on extraordinary journeys aboard your dream vessel as it swiftly sails across serene waters or rides exhilarating waves with unparalleled grace and comfort.

Recent Posts

• Sailboat Gear and Equipment
• Sailboat Lifestyle
• Sailboat Maintenance
• Sailboat Racing
• Sailboat Tips and Tricks
• Sailboat Types
• Sailing Adventures
• Sailing Destinations
• Sailing Safety
• Sailing Techniques

My Cruiser Life Magazine

How To Pick a Small Catamaran — Everything You Need to Know

Catamarans have had the sailing world abuzz for several decades now. To the salty monohull sailors’ chagrin, they aren’t going away any time soon. They’re roomy, comfortable, spacious, airy, and light-filled. They ride flat and don’t heel over when the breeze freshens. When you step aboard a modern catamaran, even the most landlubber-y of landlubbers can envision moving aboard and setting sail to distant horizons. 

There’s no set definition, so we’ll have to look to the boat manufacturers for answers. If you look at the lineup from Leopard, Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Bali, and others, you’ll find that the smallest cats are generally somewhere between 38 to 40 feet long. There are other manufacturers making some 35-foot boats, but these look a lot different.

The appeal of the small catamaran is nothing new, and many different boat makers have made attempts over the years. Here are a few things you might want to consider before purchasing a small catamaran boat.

Table of Contents

What is a small catamaran sailboat, pros of a small catamaran boat, cons of small catamaran boats, not all catamarans have the same feel.

• Size (Of Your Liveaboard Catamaran) Matters 

Priorities: Affordable Catamarans or Small Catamarans?

• Picking the Right Small Sail Catamaran 

Best Small Catamaran FAQs

For liveaboard, long-distance sailors, a small catamaran is a twin-hulled sailboat between 35 and 40 feet long. 

There are a few designs, but the most comfortable ones are those with wide beams and the hulls set farther apart. This size catamaran is necessary to ensure the boat can carry enough supplies and retains enough stability to be safe at sea. However, these small boats still feel very large and have beams of 19 to 21 feet. Boats of this size have twin diesel inboard engines. These boats come with four cabins or three cabins in an “owner’s version” layout.

Many of these boats could be described as French-style charter catamarans. Examples of boats like this include those made by Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot. South African companies like Leopard make them too, and there are a few one-off designs, like the American-made Manta share these features. 

Generally speaking, a 38-foot-long, 21-foot-wide sailboat is not a small one. But if you love the French-style catamaran, this is about the smallest you’ll find. That’s because this type of boat depends on its width for stability and its length for carrying a load. A shorter boat is very easy to overload. Most boat makers, Lagoon, Bali, Leopard, and the rest, currently make nothing less than 37 feet. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katamarans (@katamarans)

But there are some smaller options. 

On the other end of the spectrum from the super-wide French-style cat, there are small catamaran sailboat designs built for day-tripping and short-term coastal cruising. These are often narrower than offshore boats and can be stored in a regular boat slip. This is an especially important consideration in coastal areas where big offshore catamarans aren’t very common and marina options are limited. 

These boats will sometimes have beams of 15 feet or less. These smaller and lighter boats are often propelled by a single engine, either an inboard diesel or a gasoline outboard. All of these factors make them cheaper. 

Examples of boats like this, small and made for nearshore coastal cruising, are the 105MC from Gemini Catamarans and the Endeavour 30. The Gemini is one of the most popular coastal cruiser cats made. It is 35 feet long with a single center-mounted diesel inboard engine, retractable centerboards for shallow-water cruising, and distinctive hard dodger. They usually have two cabins or three cabins and one or two heads.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jeremy Ryan Davidson (@jeremy_ryan_photo)

A third group of catamarans doesn’t fit neatly into these two categories. They lie somewhere between small, say 30 to 37 feet, and are built well enough to be considered bluewater boats. They take their designs from seaworthy British catamarans built in the 1980s and 1990s, namely those built by Catalac and Prout. These were solid boats built tough to take on the North Sea that earned the excellent reputation they still have today. The Island Packet PacketCat and Dean Catamarans 365 are two more recent examples.

They tend not to be as beamy as the French charter catamarans and are much less common. However, for owners lucky enough to find a good one, they make excellent long-distance cruisers and liveaboard boats.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nadia & Joël autour du monde (@sailing_gypsy_sirena)

Of course, the smallest catamaran of all is the beach cat that everyone is familiar with. It’s nothing more than two small hulls connected by poles and netting. Fun and fast, there’s no better toy on the resort’s beach. They have no interior accommodation—they are just for day sailing. We’ll keep our discussion limited to liveaboard catamaran options. 

Catamarans appeal to many sailors, but the reasons folks like them vary from person to person. For example, some are in love with the way cats sail. Faster and lighter than monohulls, they speed up quickly in light wind and skip over the waves. 

Others prefer the living space aboard a catamaran. They usually have open, airy salons with tons of light and fresh air everywhere. Big windows are the norm, unlike monohulls described by many as “caves.”

Here are a few reasons to consider a small catamaran with cabin. 

• Cheaper than bigger catamarans
• Shallow draft for exploring more places, especially compared to fixed keels on monohulls
• Easy handling and happy sailing
• Large windows and great ventilation in the living space
• Large, open cockpits to entertain guests
• Faster cruising than a similar-sized monohull
• More interior living space than a monohull
• Does not heal under sail as monohulls do—rides flatter
• Fits in more slips and at more marinas than larger, wider boats
• The narrower the boat, the more boatyards are available to you
• One diesel engine price tag—keeps boat and maintenance cheap compared to twin inboard diesels
• Option for outboard engines, which saves even more money in maintenance—some smaller boats have one or two outboard engines

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elena und Ben (@elenaundben)

There are some struggles for catamaran and would-be catamaran owners, of course. But, by far, the biggest problem you’ll face with choosing a small catamaran is the problem of having limited choices. There aren’t many cats in the world when you compare them to monohulls, and those catamarans you find are more expensive.

Another problem with small catamarans is that they are very sensitive to overloading. While they have lots of storage space, they can’t hold much weight. As the hulls ride lower in the water, sailing performance and overall stability decrease. In other words, a catamaran will hold less weight than a monohull of a similar length.

• Fewer available on the market than monohulls
• Interior space feels different than that on bigger models
• Weight carrying capacity is less than may be required for comfortable long-distance cruising
• Lack of overall stability due to narrower beams
• Seakeeping and ride qualities are poorer than long cats
• Some find the ride quality of shorter catamarans to be uncomfortable
• Lightly built with thin fiberglass layups, susceptible to flexing issues—some require more repair and maintenance than similar-sized and aged monohulls
• High-quality offshore models are hard to find
• Low bridgedeck clearance may mean wave slapping and pounding with some boats on some points of sail

Tips When Shopping for a Small Catamaran Sailboat

Here are a few things to remember if you want to purchase a small catamaran with cabin. 

When looking at the latest models, you’ll see that catamaran construction has changed quite a bit in the last two decades. So it’s really important to understand what you like so much about your dream catamaran. 

Is it the open feeling you get when standing in the salon, looking out of those huge windows? Or is it the way you can easily walk from the salon to the cockpit to the side decks or helm without stepping up and over seats, in and out of a deep cockpit? What about the easy access to your dinghy, which is on davits at the rear? Or maybe it’s the way that there’s plenty of light below decks in your cabin, and the boat feels open and airy?

The choices look very different when you start downsizing and looking at small cruising cats. Some or all of these features were things that designers had to learn to do. In some cases, they’re still learning how to do them. And in some cases, they’re impossible to do on a small boat. 

Size (Of Your Liveaboard Catamaran) Matters

Small catamarans have never been and will never be designed to carry a load. Catamarans are performance-oriented, even if some are built for charter and look like condo buildings. When you stuff too much weight in a catamaran, its sailing characteristics are degraded. As the waterline gets lower and lower, the boat sails noticeably slower, and stability is adversely affected. 

As a result, it’s frightfully easy to overload a small catamaran. Going out for a daysail is easy, as you might only bring a towel and some water. But living aboard or traveling long distances is another thing entirely. With a catamaran under 37 feet, it is very difficult not to overload it while keeping enough stuff—tools, spare parts, food/groceries, water, fuel, clothes, gadgets, books, etc. Cats 35 feet and under can be dangerously overloaded, which is another reason these boats are usually not generally considered bluewater vessels.

This is one of the biggest reasons you don’t see many small catamarans being built and crossing oceans—most people need more stuff than a small cat can safely hold. 

So with the quality of the living space and the weight of your stuff in mind, most cruising couples are most comfortable on a 40 or 42-foot catamaran. Peformance-wise, a 42 or 44-foot catamaran is the sweet spot for most. Unfortunately, these boats are expensive! Much more so than a 35-footer. 

Shorter catamarans also handle big seas differently. The shorter a catamaran is, the more likely it is to hobby horse—the tendency towards a quick, bow-up bow-down motion at sea. This is another reason that 44-footers are ideal—they’re long enough to escape this tendency and ride better in open water. Plus, their longer waterlines and narrower hulls mean these bigger cats will be significantly faster on all points of sail. If you want to see a list of bigger catamarans, check out our list of the best liveaboard catamarans .

So, you must approach your choice with these things in mind. A lot of people downsize their plans to fit their budget. But are you willing to put up with the problems associated with a smaller catamaran than you need? Would a different type of boat actually suit your goals better?

Picking the Right Small Sail Catamaran

Every boat purchase is a compromise, and there is never a perfect boat that can do everything. First, keep a clear mental picture of your goals and what you love about the catamarans you’ve seen. Then, keep an open mind! There are so many different types of boats, and catamarans are just one of them. 

When you’re ready to start shopping for a small catamaran sailboat, check out our list of cheap catamarans for some great options in the under-40-foot range.

What are small catamarans called?

A small catamaran is a boat with two hulls. The smallest are beach catamarans like the Hobie Cat . For liveaboard sailors, small catamarans are between 35 and 40 feet long.

How much does a small catamaran cost?

Prices for small catamarans vary greatly depending on the boat’s popularity, quality, and design. For example, one of the most popular small liveaboard catamarans is the French-built Lagoon 380, built from 1999 to 2020. Depending on features, age, and location, these boats currently sell for between $200,000 and $400,000. On the other hand, the much smaller American-built Gemini 105MC can be found for half as much. 

What is the best small catamaran to live on?

Everyone is looking for something a little different in their liveaboard catamaran. The Lagoon 380 and Fountaine Pajot Mahe are popular options if you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable charter catamaran. 

What is the smallest catamaran to circumnavigate?

Many catamarans in the 35-foot range have successfully circumnavigated. Smaller ones have likely made the trip, albeit less comfortably. But generally, most sailors agree that a 38 to 40-foot cat would be the smallest size that should make the trip, and a 42 to 44-footer would be best. The WorldARC, a 15-month-long around-the-world sailing rally hosted by the World Cruising Club, requires boats to have a 40-foot length, although they will consider smaller vessels on a case-by-case basis.  

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Small Catamarans

Great boats come in small packages.

Sometimes a boat doesn’t have to be the biggest one on the dock to be the best boat for a particular boater. Small boats have lots to recommend them in fact, and we incorporated many of the benefits of small boats into every boat in our line. These attributes just make sense for 99 percent of boats.

Smaller boats are easy to operate, simpler and less expensive to maintain, and better for the environment. Why have 55 feet at the waterline when one can have 38 feet with the same amount of deckspace and accommodations?

Small Power Catamarans Get the Same Benefits of Great Hull Design

A small power catamaran may be easy to get around to handle lines around the dock, and is just more manageable all around for a cruising couple than a boat that’s much larger. That said, our patented proa hull design means Aspen owners get all the benefits of seakeeping, straight tracking, and efficient cruising, without paying more for dockage.

Bringing together all the features of an Aspen Power Catamaran in a sweet little package will ensure happy cruising and adventures galore for our owners and their families and friends.

Here Are the Small Catamarans that Deliver Big on Boating Fun

Aspen L90 LX

Patent No. US 8,109,221 B2

Stay Up to Date with Aspen Sign up to receive our enewsletter.

11656 Knudson Rd. Burlington, WA 98233

Privacy Policy

Tell us your Aspen Story .

© Copyright 2012 - 2024 | Aspen Power Catamarans

(360) 668-4347 EMAIL US

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

• Asia  (5)
•     Malaysia  (1)
•     Thailand  (1)
• Atlantic  (155)
•     Bahamas  (5)
•     Canada  (0)
•     Chesapeake Bay  (33)
•     Florida  (70)
•     Georgia  (10)
•     New England  (8)
•     North Carolina  (0)
•     South Carolina  (16)
•     Texas  (1)
• Atlantic South  (1)
•     South Africa  (1)
•     South America  (0)
• Caribbean  (75)
•     Antigua  (0)
•     Aruba  (1)
•     Belize  (1)
•     BVI  (0)
•     Colombia  (0)
•     Costa Rica  (0)
•     Grenada  (6)
•     Guatemala  (2)
•     Jamaica  (0)
•     Martinique  (2)
•     Mexico  (1)
•     Panama  (12)
•     Puerto Rico  (3)
•     Sint Maarten  (0)
•     USVI  (0)
• Europe  (33)
•     England  (0)
•     France  (5)
•     Greece  (7)
•     Italy  (3)
•     Portugal  (0)
•     Spain  (5)
•     Turkey  (0)
•     United Kingdom  (0)
• Indian Ocean  (2)
•     Tanzania  (0)
• Pacific  (21)
•     Australia  (1)
•     British Columbia  (1)
•     California  (3)
•     Fiji  (0)
•     Hawaii  (0)
•     Mexico Pacific  (7)
•     New Zealand  (0)
•     Oregon  (0)
•     Panama Pacific  (0)
•     South Pacific  (2)
•     Washington  (3)

Large Multihulls

• Lagoon 440 (Florida)
• Catana 42 (Florida)
• Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 (Georgia)
• Lagoon 440 (Asia)
• Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 (Caribbean)
• Leopard 48 (Greece)
• Lagoon 39 (Georgia)
• Manta 42 (Florida)
• Lagoon 420 (New England)
• Leopard 44 (Europe)
• Fountaine Pajot Isla 40 (Pacific)
• Leopard 48 (Panama)
• Catana 471 (Florida)
• Nautitech 46 Open (Atlantic)
• Lagoon 400 S2 Owner’s Version (Texas)
• St Francis 44 MKII (Florida)
• Maverick 400 Executive (New England)
• Leopard 45 (Caribbean)
• Balance 442 (Caribbean)
• Manta 42 MKII (Pacific)
• Catana 50 Ocean Class (France)
• Seawind 1190 Sport (Washington)
• Lagoon 450F (Mexico Pacific)
• Catana 44 (Chesapeake Bay)
• Looping 60 (South Pacific)
• Lagoon 42 (Europe)
• Lagoon 450F (Grenada)
• Lagoon 42 (Chesapeake Bay)
• Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 (Florida)
• Constellation 65 Schooner (Mexico)
• Lagoon Power 67 (Florida)
• FP Helia 44 Evolution (Florida)
• Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 (Caribbean)
• Leopard 40 (Chesapeake Bay)
• Maverick 440 (Georgia)

Voyage 380 Maxim (Indian Ocean)

• Balance 442 (South Carolina)
• Lagoon 450F (Georgia)
• Catana 471 (Caribbean)
• Lagoon 450S (France)
• Privilege 510S (Chesapeake Bay)
• Leopard 51 Powercat (South Carolina)
• Lagoon 52 (South Carolina)
• Leopard 45 (Florida)
• Lagoon 450F (South Carolina)
• Lagoon 410 S2 (Panama)
• Nautitech 475 (Caribbean)
• Catana 411 (Pacific)
• Balance 482 (Florida)
• Leopard 40 (Florida)

Pocket Catamarans

Fountaine pajot mahe 36 (new england), prout 35 snowgoose (chesapeake bay), lagoon 37 tpi (florida), hirondelle 7m mk ii (atlantic), hopyacht 30 (florida), fountaine pajot 35 tobago (florida), fountaine pajot 35 tobago (bahamas), marstrom seacart 30 (california), island packet 35 cat (atlantic), aventura 37 (france), endeavour victory 35 (mexico pacific), gemini freestyle 37 (new england), gemini legacy 35 (florida), gemini legacy 35 (caribbean), gemini 105m (florida), power catamarans.

• Lagoon 43 PC (New England)
• Endeavour TrawlerCat 44 (Georgia)
• Leopard 39 PC (Chesapeake Bay)
• Aquila 48 Powercat (Atlantic)
• Leopard 46 Lion PC (South Carolina)
• Lagoon 43 PC (Florida)
• Endeavour 44 TrawlerCat (Florida)
• Lagoon 44 PC (Caribbean)
• Aquila 44 Yacht (South Carolina)
• Lagoon Seventy 8 (Asia)
• Aquila 44 (Asia)
• Fountaine Pajot Summerland 40 (Atlantic)
• FP Ipanema 58 Power (Caribbean)
• Nautitech 47 Power (Puerto Rico)
• Malcolm Tennant 68 Power (Washington)
• Gold Coast 70 Wave Piercer (Caribbean)
• Gemini Freestyle 399 Power (Chesapeake Bay)
• Custom 102 Power Cat (Europe)

Sale Pending

• Lagoon 400 (Florida)
• Leopard 39 (Chesapeake Bay)
• Catana 411 (South Carolina)
• Excess 15 (Europe)
• Lagoon 440 (South Carolina)
• PDQ Antares 42 (Florida)
• Leopard 40 (South Carolina)
• EndeavourCat 36 (Florida)
• Leopard 46 (Chesapeake Bay)
• Lagoon 42 (Florida)
• Lagoon 560 (Italy)
• Lagoon 420 (Florida)
• Bali 4.2 Owner (Chesapeake Bay)
• Lagoon 620 (Caribbean)
• Gemini 105M (California)
• Hughes 40-46 Tri (British Columbia)
• Admiral  (0)
•     Admiral 38  (0)
•     Admiral 40  (0)
• Americat  (0)
•     Americat 3014  (0)
• Antares  (0)
•     Antares 44  (0)
• Aquila  (3)
•     Aquila 44  (2)
•     Aquila 48 Power Catamaran  (1)
• Aventura  (1)
•     Aventura 37  (1)
• Balance  (3)
•     Balance 442  (2)
•     Balance 482  (1)
• Bali  (13)
•     Bali 4.0  (0)
•     Bali 4.1  (2)
•     Bali 4.2  (2)
•     Bali 4.3  (1)
•     Bali 4.4  (1)
•     Bali 4.5  (2)
•     Bali 4.6  (0)
•     Bali 4.8  (2)
•     Bali 40 Catspace  (1)
•     Bali 5.4  (2)
•     Bali Catsmart  (0)
• Beneteau  (0)
•     Beneteau Blue II  (0)
• Broadblue  (0)
•     Broadblue 38 Prestige  (0)
•     Broadblue 385  (0)
•     Broadblue 435  (0)
• Catalac  (0)
•     Catalac 10M  (0)
•     Catalac 11M  (0)
•     Catalac 12M  (0)
•     Catalac 8M  (0)
•     Catalac 900  (0)
•     Catalac 9M  (0)
• Catana  (14)
•     Catana 381  (1)
•     Catana 39  (0)
•     Catana 401  (0)
•     Catana 40S  (0)
•     Catana 411  (2)
•     Catana 42  (2)
•     Catana 42 S  (0)
•     Catana 431  (0)
•     Catana 44  (1)
•     Catana 471  (3)
•     Catana 50  (3)
•     Catana 521  (0)
•     Catana 531  (0)
•     Catana 55  (0)
•     Catana 581  (1)
•     Catana 65  (1)
• Catathai  (1)
•     Catathai 44  (1)
• Chris White  (0)
•     Chris White 48 Voyager  (0)
•     Chris White 55  (0)
• Condor  (1)
•     Condor 40  (1)
• Contour  (0)
•     Contour 34  (0)
• Corsair  (0)
•     Corsair F28 R  (0)
• Cross  (0)
• Crowther  (0)
• Custom  (10)
• De Villiers  (0)
• Dean  (1)
•     Dean 365  (0)
•     Dean 400  (0)
•     Dean 440  (1)
• Dix  (0)
•     Dix DH550  (0)
• Dolphin  (3)
•     Dolphin 380  (1)
•     Dolphin 460  (2)
• Edel  (0)
•     Edel 35  (0)
• Endeavour  (4)
•     Endeavour 30  (0)
•     Endeavour 35 Victory  (1)
•     Endeavour 36  (1)
•     Endeavour 44  (0)
•     Endeavour 44 TrawlerCat  (2)
•     Endeavour 50 Pilothouse Trawler  (0)
• Excess  (1)
•     Excess 11  (0)
•     Excess 15  (1)
• Farrier  (0)
•     F-41  (0)
• Fastback  (1)
•     Fastback 43  (1)
• Fastcat  (0)
•     Fastcat 445  (0)
• Fisher  (0)
•     Fisher 28  (0)
• Fortuna  (0)
•     Fortuna 36 Island Spirit  (0)
•     Fortuna 401 Island Spirit  (0)
• Fountaine Pajot  (29)
•     FP 32 Maldives  (0)
•     FP 35 Tobago  (2)
•     FP 36 Mahe  (1)
•     FP 37 Antigua  (0)
•     FP 38 Athena  (1)
•     FP 39 Fidji  (0)
•     FP 40 Isla  (2)
•     FP 40 Lavezzi  (0)
•     FP 40 Lucia  (2)
•     FP 40 MY  (0)
•     FP 40 Summerland MY  (1)
•     FP 41 Lipari  (3)
•     FP 42 Astrea  (0)
•     FP 42 Venezia  (0)
•     FP 43 Belize  (2)
•     FP 44 Helia  (4)
•     FP 44 Orana  (1)
•     FP 45 Elba  (2)
•     FP 46 Bahia  (0)
•     FP 46 Casamance  (0)
•     FP 48 Salina  (2)
•     FP 50 Saba  (2)
•     FP 56 Marquises  (1)
•     FP 58 Ipanema  (1)
•     FP 60 Eleuthera  (1)
•     FP Saona 47  (1)
• Fusion  (1)
•     Fusion 40  (1)
• Gemini  (6)
•     Gemini 105  (2)
•     Gemini 3000  (0)
•     Gemini 3200  (0)
•     Gemini 3400  (0)
•     Gemini Freestyle 37  (1)
•     Gemini Freestyle 399 Power  (1)
•     Gemini Legacy 35  (2)
• General  (0)
• Grainger  (0)
•     Grainger 420 Mystery Cove  (0)
• Gunboat  (1)
•     Gunboat 55  (1)
• Hirondelle  (1)
•     Hirondelle 7M  (1)
• HopYacht  (1)
•     HopYacht 30  (1)
• Hughes  (1)
• Island Packet  (1)
•     Island Packet Cat 35  (1)
• Kelsall  (0)
• Kennex  (0)
•     Kennex 420  (0)
• Knysna  (2)
•     Knysna 440  (0)
•     Knysna 500  (1)
•     Knysna 550  (1)
• Lagoon  (88)
•     Lagoon 35  (0)
•     Lagoon 37 TPI  (1)
•     Lagoon 380  (6)
•     Lagoon 39  (1)
•     Lagoon 40  (1)
•     Lagoon 400  (5)
•     Lagoon 410  (5)
•     Lagoon 42  (11)
•     Lagoon 42 TPI  (1)
•     Lagoon 420  (4)
•     Lagoon 421  (1)
•     Lagoon 43 PC  (2)
•     Lagoon 44 Power Cat  (1)
•     Lagoon 440  (4)
•     Lagoon 450  (16)
•     Lagoon 46  (3)
•     Lagoon 470  (0)
•     Lagoon 50  (2)
•     Lagoon 500  (6)
•     Lagoon 52F  (7)
•     Lagoon 55  (2)
•     Lagoon 560  (5)
•     Lagoon 570  (1)
•     Lagoon 620  (1)
•     Lagoon Seventy 8  (1)
•     Lagoon Sixty 7  (1)
• Leeuwin  (0)
•     Leeuwin 42  (0)
• Leopard  (36)
•     Leopard 38  (2)
•     Leopard 39  (2)
•     Leopard 39 PowerCat  (1)
•     Leopard 40  (8)
•     Leopard 42  (0)
•     Leopard 43  (0)
•     Leopard 44  (3)
•     Leopard 45  (3)
•     Leopard 45 Classic  (2)
•     Leopard 46  (5)
•     Leopard 46 Lion PowerCat  (1)
•     Leopard 47  (3)
•     Leopard 47 PowerCat  (0)
•     Leopard 48  (5)
•     Leopard 50  (0)
•     Leopard 51 PowerCat  (1)
•     Leopard 53 PowerCat  (0)
•     Leopard 58  (0)
• Lidgard  (1)
•     Lidgard 73 Executive  (1)
• Looping  (1)
•     Looping 50  (0)
• Maine Cat  (1)
•     Maine Cat 30  (0)
•     Maine Cat 38  (1)
•     Maine Cat 41  (0)
• Manta  (5)
•     Manta 40  (2)
•     Manta 42  (3)
• Matrix  (0)
•     Matrix 450 Vision  (0)
• Maverick  (2)
•     Maverick 400  (1)
•     Maverick 420  (0)
•     Maverick 440  (1)
• Moxie  (1)
•     Moxie 61  (1)
• Nautitech  (9)
•     Nautitech 40  (0)
•     Nautitech 40 Open  (1)
•     Nautitech 44 Open  (0)
•     Nautitech 442  (0)
•     Nautitech 46 Open  (5)
•     Nautitech 47  (0)
•     Nautitech 47 Power  (1)
•     Nautitech 475  (1)
•     Nautitech 65  (1)
• Neel  (1)
•     Neel 45  (0)
•     Neel 47  (1)
• Outremer  (0)
•     Outremer 40  (0)
•     Outremer 50 Standard  (0)
•     Outremer 5X  (0)
• PDQ  (1)
•     PDQ 32  (0)
•     PDQ 36  (0)
•     PDQ 42 Antares  (1)
• Privilege  (5)
•     Privilege 37  (0)
•     Privilege 39  (0)
•     Privilege 42  (0)
•     Privilege 43  (0)
•     Privilege 435  (0)
•     Privilege 45  (0)
•     Privilege 465  (0)
•     Privilege 48 Transcat  (0)
•     Privilege 482  (0)
•     Privilege 495  (0)
•     Privilege 510  (2)
•     Privilege 65  (1)
•     Privilege Serie 5  (2)
• Prout  (3)
•     Prout 31 Quest  (0)
•     Prout 33 Quest  (0)
•     Prout 34 Event  (0)
•     Prout 35 Snowgoose  (1)
•     Prout 37 Snowgoose  (0)
•     Prout 37 Snowgoose Elite  (0)
•     Prout 38  (0)
•     Prout 38 Manta  (0)
•     Prout 39 Escale  (0)
•     Prout 45  (2)
•     Prout 46  (0)
• Royal Cape  (1)
•     Royal Cape 45  (0)
•     Royal Cape 500 Majestic  (0)
•     Royal Cape 530 Majestic  (1)
• Sailcraft  (0)
•     Sailcraft 32 Comanche  (0)
•     Sailcraft 35 Cherokee  (0)
•     Sailcraft 41 Apache  (0)
•     Sailcraft 44 Apache  (0)
• Scape  (1)
•     Scape 39  (1)
• Schionning  (1)
•     Wildcat 350  (0)
• Seacart  (1)
•     Seacart 30  (1)
• Seawind  (1)
•     Seawind 1000  (0)
•     Seawind 1160  (0)
•     Seawind 1190  (1)
•     Seawind 1200  (0)
•     Seawind 1600  (0)
• Simpson  (0)
•     Simpson 48  (0)
• Solaris  (0)
•     Solaris 36 Sunrise  (0)
•     Solaris 36 Sunstar  (0)
•     Solaris 42  (0)
• St Francis  (1)
•     St Francis 44  (1)
•     St Francis 50  (0)
• Stealth  (1)
•     Stealth 11.8  (1)
• Sunreef  (6)
•     Sunreef 62  (1)
•     Sunreef 70  (1)
•     Sunreef 74C  (1)
•     Sunreef 82 DD  (1)
•     Sunreef 88 DD  (1)
• Switch  (3)
•     Switch 51  (2)
•     Switch 55  (1)
• TRT  (0)
•     TRT 1200  (0)
• Twins  (0)
•     Heavenly Twins 26  (0)
•     Ocean Twins 38  (0)
• Vaan  (0)
•     Vaan R5  (0)
• Vision  (1)
•     Vision 444  (1)
• Voyage  (10)
•     Voyage 380 Maxim  (1)
•     Voyage 400 Norseman  (0)
•     Voyage 440  (3)
•     Voyage 450 Cabriolet  (0)
•     Voyage 47 Mayotte  (2)
•     Voyage 480  (1)
•     Voyage 500  (1)
•     Voyage 580  (1)
•     Voyage 590  (1)
• Wauquiez  (0)
•     Kronos 45  (0)
• Wharram  (0)
•     Wharram 38 Tiki  (0)
• Whitehaven  (0)
• Woods  (0)
•     AMI 320 Renaissance  (0)
•     Woods 22 Wizard  (0)
•     Woods 35 Banshee  (0)
•     Woods 35 Flica  (0)
•     Woods 36 Scylla  (0)
•     Woods 36 Vardo  (0)
•     Woods 38 Transit  (0)
•     Woods 40 Meander  (0)
• Xquisite  (1)
•     Xquisite X5  (1)

All Catamarans For Sale < 38 ft

The Mahe 36 is designed for easy handling, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those new to catamaran sailing. It’s known for its good performance in light winds and comfort in rougher seas. This Mahe 36 is exceptionally well maintained and equipped for long off-grid cruising: big solar array, lithium batteries, a watermaker, induction and gas stove, a brand new mainsail, a Parasailor, a hypalon rib with 15 hp 2 stroke outboard, starlink internet and much more, she is ready for your adventure! In 2021 we started our sailing adventure in Germany, sailed KISS to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas and up the US East Coast.…

S/V Other Goose is a 1980 Prout 35 Custom Snowgoose, built in Britain and sailed over by the first owner to the southern Caribbean. We are the second owners and have sailed her from the southern Caribbean to the head of the Great Lakes and back to the Bahamas several times.

She is stable, solid and reliable in any conditions. 35 feet long by 16.5 foot beam. Weight 13000lbs., [ solid fibreglass hull and decks – no coring]. She has a kevlar t rampoline, not a hard front deck.

Boat is in great condition with new rig, main sail and 3YM Yanmar diesel [2200 hours].…

Dreamin’ is a 1995 Lagoon 37 TPI Jeanneau Catamaran, Ready to cross the Atlantic. This boat is set up for a Full-time live Aboard couple with over $100,000.00 in upgrades. This boat has crossed the Atlantic twice and is rigged and ready to cross again.

The boat condition overall is at 85% of new condition. The Luxury items found on this boat are normally found on boats costing twice as much. The electric and water systems are built around the idea of unlimited Electricity and Unlimited Water.

Comfort is paramount to the current owners of this boat.…

S/V OCEAN TRADER is a 2000 Voyage 380 Maxim catamaran, for sale by owner. She is an easy-handling cruising catamaran in a good condition with 3 cabin’s, master cabin has a luxury shower. She is registered (tax paid) in Kenya and has the right documentation.

This model can be called a Voyage 38 or a Maxim 38 because Maxim Yachts, from Durban South Africa, provided Voyage Yachts with the Voyage 38. These performance cruisers were built in South Africa by Maxim and distributed through Voyage Yachts. The Maxim 380 was the winner of the 2005 Cruising World Best New Catamaran under 40 Ft .…

I did significant work on this rare classic English catamaran before bringing her up the ICW from Savannah to the Chesapeake Bay. There we meandered northward exploring coves and inlets that most boats could not enter. When we reached the top of the Bay we headed through the C&D Canal, down the Delaware Bay, and back inside from Cape May to Manasquan Inlet. There we headed outside up to and around Sandy Hook. I and my crew of 1-2 spent three comfortable months on our 1,000+ mile journey. There is 5-8” of headroom in both hulls and sitting headroom in the bridgedeck salon (which converts into a double berth).…

The Hopyacht is a brand-new concept in sailing. This vessel is an all-electric sailing catamaran, suited for a couple who wants to do easy, coastal and protected-waters cruising. The Hopyacht offers a combination of comfort and liveability in this ultra-easy-to-handle boat under 30 feet length, with a focus on relaxation and pleasure, all with ZERO C02 emissions!

This diminutive multihull takes a fresh approach in several areas, notably its propulsion, both sail and power. The boat is 100% electric with twin ePropulsion Evo 6.0 pod drives that provide a 40-mile range at 4.5 knots over 10 hours, or a 16-mile range at 7 knots over about two and a half hours.…

Cat Alee is a great example of an affordable small catamaran that is ocean capable, well built and swift. The newer Beta marine engines will give confidence to travel safely in all conditions.

Owner Statement

I Found Cat Alee in a state of disrepair in the back of a Newport, RI boatyard in 2018. Her 3 most redeeming qualities were a sound hull, brand new engines (professionally installed), and custom davits capable of mounting solar panels.

After a 4-month extensive retrofit, all wiring and electronics were updated, hull painted, and a new aluminum double-hull dinghy with Tohatsu 9.9hp outboard was added.…

Lagoon 380 S2 (Caribbean)

This Is Me is a Lagoon 380 S2 owner’s version. She has the large windows in cabins with the larger owners cabin and shower. She is very well maintained and clean. Never chartered, 6 people can sit comfortably inside at table and outside table can seat 8.

A MUST SEE!

Recently we had a Volvo mechanic tell us he had never seen cleaner Volvo MD3040 engines. We just finished a 6 month sail staying out on anchor the entire time. She is fully self sustained she just needs wind and a little fuel.…

Catana 381 (Europe)

S/V Morgane is a 1996 Catana 381 catamaran, for sale by owner.

At just under 39 ft. LOA, the Catana 381 is the smallest (& most affordable) of the popular Catana range of performance cruising catamarans. She has daggerboards, for upwind efficiency, high bridge deck clearance, her asymmetrical ‘V’ shaped bows help to prevent Hobby horsing while providing great style, while providing high performance. She is blue water ready, strong, well equipped, and capable.

These boats have been clocked at over 20 knots in 25 knots of wind. Her cockpit features an elevated helm station aft and on the centerline for excellent visibility and easy gunsight steering.…

S/V Hands and Feet is a 1995 Fountaine Pajot 35 Tobago catamaran, for sale by owner. 

Naturally seaworthy, the Tobago 35 is an innovative-looking sailing vessel. Take the helm and appreciate the power. With the autopilot and the raised platform, you can have a drink away from the motion of the waves.

Every Fountaine Pajot is built to the highest ISO 9002 European standard for offshore yachts, incorporating vacuum-bagging construction and careful hand lay-up with sophisticated high-strength resins which results in an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio.

The keels are fixed and filled with foam, protecting the rudders and shafts.…

Are you an R2AK Fan? Do you want to pull $10k from a tree in Ketchikan next race? As I write this, the carbon fiber, custom Cochrane-designed, trimaran Dragon (Team Mololo) is tacking past Comox, BC and her nearest competition is a Schock 40 monohull closely trailed by 3 Farrier trimarans all the way back abreast of Lasqueti Island. Dragon is way out front! To be competitive in the R2AK you have to be fast and to be really fast you have to be carbon.

But you don’t have to break the bank to be fast!…

The 1997 35 Island Packet Cat is a versatile catamaran designed for adventure and comfort. Its spacious deck layout and well-appointed interior offer ample room for relaxation. The signature DeltaPod under the midsection/foredeck decreases discomfort from wave impacts, provides a great deal of storage not found on other cats of this size, and lowers the main cabin to provide more headroom. These simple changes add up in major ways to increase comfort while cruising or entertaining.

Complete with full electronics including autopilot, chart plotter, radar, AWI, depth and speed. This is a long time knowledgeable-owner yacht, maintained in yacht condition with equipment for offshore cruising and island hopping with autonomy and security.…

Lagoon 380 (Caribbean)

2011 Lagoon 380 Owners Version (2012 model, launched in mid 2011).

Phoenix is a beautiful example of a well maintained vessel. This is her second owner, the first sold her months after purchasing. Never Chartered, she is an owners version with the Starboard hull dedicated to the owners spacious cabin to the aft and a separate head and shower forward of that.

The 2 guest cabins as well as an additional head and shower are located in the port hull.

Many recent upgrades, new water maker, washing machine, roller furler, solar panel and controller to name a few.…

Maine Cat 38 (Florida)

This is a rare opportunity to own the highly desirable Maine Cat 38. It isn’t often that a boat like In 2 Deep comes on the market. Maine Cat represents one of the few catamaran brands that were built in the USA. The Maine Cat 38 was based on a performance sailing design, utilizing modern construction techniques and materials, that results in a high-quality catamaran that can out sail any other cruising boat in her size range. With her retractable daggerboards, she will sail to windward like a dream and can take advantage of hidden anchorages with her shallow draft.…

Why wait 12+ months to get sailing? This one will be completed and ready as early as Spring 2025!  

Aventura Catamarans has once again entrusted Lasta Design with the exceptional Aventura 37 Sail.  The result lives up to the desired ambitions: purity of lines, treatment of interior and exterior spaces without equal on the market.

The Aventura 37 is distinguished by an elegant and dynamic silhouette, unique on the catamaran market of less than 12 meters: the roof has a double seat at the helm station, close to the sunbathing area for perfect conviviality, the steering station helm located as close as possible to the sail plan allows perfect control of the sails for performance.…

This is a great 3 cabin Lagoon 380 with some excellent features, and we know a lot about this boat. The original owner had the boat delivered to the UK and after some cruising around the UK she was then shipped by cargo vessel to Antigua. She sailed back & forth between Antigua and Grenada for a few years.

The boat then stayed in Grenada for a while until it was sold in 2015 to its second owner, where it cruised locally and received many upgrades including a generator, AC and solar.…

Lagoon 380 (Florida)

This vessel has been meticulously maintained and includes numerous upgrades. It has undergone recent bottom painting and rudder maintenance, ensuring it is in excellent condition. The sails are also in great condition, and the main sail line has been replaced. Additionally, the GPS has been upgraded to a Garmin system. The vessel has also been equipped with new underwater LED lights, providing enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

The Yanmar Port has had all exterior parts replaced, including belts, pulleys, and a water pump in 2023. The Yanmar Star motor was completely rebuilt and replaced in 2023, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 (Mexico Pacific)

S/V Belize is a 2001 Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 catamaran, for sale by owner in Mexico. In early 2020 she was sailed from Panama to Puerto Vallarta by her second owner who prepped her for an ocean crossing (professional rigger inspection, new mast sheaves, new rudder bearings, new running rigging) but then his plans changed. We purchased her in the fall of 2022 and cruised her from Puerto Vallarta to Mazatlan to La Paz to Loreto where I put her on the hard at Marina Escondido in April 2023. I had planned to splash her in the fall of 2023 but plans changed and I listed her on this site.…

S/V Quartersplash is a 2000 Endeavor Victory 35 catamaran, for sale by owner. Asking price is $146,000.  Cruising ready with numerous upgrades listed below. Quartersplash is currently located in Puerto Escondido Marina, near Loreto, BCS, MX, in dry storage. Puerto Escondido marina has affordable and available mooring the Sea of Cortez with reasonable rates. Puerto Escondido is easily accessible with a major airport 10 miles away, serviced by Alaska and American airlines and several Mexican carriers. We have enjoyed our time on the Sea with her and hope to find someone else who enjoys her as much as we did.…

TIDES AND TIMES is an innovative design, easy to handle, safe, and comfortable both at sea and anchor. She has four spacious double cabins and two heads plus a bright main saloon, so plenty of room for family and friends to join in with the fun. Never chartered.

The Lagoon 380 is known as the most successful cruising catamaran model. Introduced in 2000,  it was built to be a workhouse for the charter industry and an entry level-cruiser. It is a great entry level cruising catamaran that sails better than many other cats and provides lots of living space for the money.

“Papillon Bleu” was sailed for at least 5 years on fresh water (Lake Champlain) before the last 4 years of mostly seasonal sailing in Florida, Bahamas and the Caribbean. Her fiberglass and metalwork with less wear are in better condition than most boats kept in the saltwater tropics all their lives.  This ICW friendly catamaran for sale is an upgraded 4 cabin 2 head version with solar, winged, radar, chartplotter, AIS, and gennaker.

The Lagoon 380 was the most popular Lagoon catamaran built with over 900 produced, which makes parts and knowledge very accessible.…

Leopard 380 (Atlantic)

**New Plastimo Contest 130 Compass 7/23/23**

S/V Muvfasta is a Louisiana based Coast Guard Documented 1999 Leopard 38 Owners Version catamaran for sale by owner with 3 cabins and 2 heads.  The Owners’ Version Leopard 38 is a highly sought after catamaran with a stellar reputation.

We are the second owners of Muvfasta and take excellent care of her.  We have done many upgrades to Muvfasta since we got her in April 2019 that are listed below.  We sailed her in the Caribbean island hopping and then sailed her from St.…

October Second is ready to sail immediately. Available now for sale this 2016 Gemini Legacy 35 catamaran sailing vessel is well equipped, has air conditioning, generator, solar panels, water-maker, dinghy davits, Corian counter tops and many other amenities and upgrades.

The vessel’s narrow, yet accommodating 14 foot beam, allows for easy dockage in slips designed for mono-hulls. This family friendly boat it is set up to be handle by only one person at the helm as all lines run to the cockpit and to spend extended period of times at anchor in remote areas.…

Made in America since 1981, the Gemini Legacy has proven to be the most family-friendly performance cruising catamaran in the world, and the reasons are obvious.

Here’s why Gemini 35’s are the most successful catamarans ever built. A very shallow draft (only 2 feet 11 inches) allows for more options for anchoring & “beaching”, Beam (14 feet) fits standard size slips and standard size travel lift. The Gemini 35 has the interior volume of much larger monohulls at the same price. Fast, level sailing with virtually no heeling. Mainsheet traveler located above and out of the way on the hardtop.…

Aireze is a Florida-based 1999 Gemini 105M catamaran for sale by owner.  The Gemini 105 was designed to be affordable, compact, relatively easy vessels for sailors new to catamarans.  It is one of the most popular catamaran designs ever built with over 1,200 hulls constructed.

Aireze is easy to handle and well equipped with a new Raymarine Autopilot, Lewmar electric windlass, new electric head, lazy jacks, 2-100 watt solar panels, new Garmin 9″ touch screen, davits , all new rigging and lines installed 2016, new water heater, new alternator, water pump, impeller, elbow, sea strainer, heat exchanger just serviced,  new belts and filters. …

Dolphin 380 (South Carolina)

From the drawing board of renowned designer Philippe Pouvreau and Dolphin Catamarans, comes a new standard bearer of the best small performance cruising catamaran – the Dolphin 380.

The new Dolphin 380 offers an unparalleled combination of accommodation, performance and build quality in this size range, making it perfect for extended cruising. It features a spacious salon and galley, three comfortable cabins, and a large cockpit.

The boat uses the same build process and materials as previous Dolphin models where hulls are constructed of hand-laid, vacuum-bagged berglass using vinyl ester resin over Divinycell foam cores giving you a superior construction to your standard production catamaran.…

Moorings 3800 (Caribbean)

This Moorings 3800, built by Robertson and Caine may seem small but she is spacious and comfortable, sporting 3 double cabins, up-top galley and a generous deck space.

This design (also branded as the Leopard 38 / Sunsail 384), was designed by Morrelli & Melvin, who have designed some of the fastest multihulls to glide across an ocean. Leopard began their sailing catamaran line-up with a 45-foot catamaran in 1997 before moving to this Leopard 38 in 1998.

Leopard catamarans boast a superior and solid construction using advanced materials such as infused glass or PVC core construction.…

Best Small Sailboats for Beginners

There are a number of classic trainers used by yacht club youth programs as well as techie new designs. Without mentioning specific models and brands, it’s difficult to outline which small boats are best but here are things to look for in good teaching boats.

Some of the best small sailboats for beginners include:

• Boats with tillers steering
• Boats with no winches
• Sailing dinghies
• Small sloops
• Small catamarans
• Rotomolded boats
• Trailerable sailboats

Explore All Sailboat Types

Boats with Tiller Steering

Steering by tiller (rather than a wheel) can make a difference when learning. Tillers are directly connected to the rudder that manages the boat’s direction. Tillers provide quick feedback about the strength and direction of the wind as well as the boat’s turning agility at various speeds.

Boats with No Winches

Boats that require no winches to manage the sheets and halyards are best for youngsters and new sailors. These boats usually don’t experience the same forces on the sails and rigging as larger boats, which can be a handful when the wind starts to blow. Winches are usually replaced with cam or jam cleats, which are easy to use.

Sailing Dinghies

Sailing dinghies are usually rigged with one mast and one sail and offer kids and new sailors simplicity so it’s easy to learn the ropes. Less overwhelming than boats with two sails, dinghies are light and responsive. They also have a shallow draft due to side or centerboards so they can be sailed just about anywhere. In some cases (whether from a wind gust or sudden crew weight shift) sailing dinghies can capsize so students should wear lifejackets and know how to swim. Sailing dinghies are usually sailed by one or two people.

Small Sloops

Small sloops with a mast that carries head and mainsails are the next step so students learn how sails work together. Headsails can be hanked on or attached to a small roller furler. These boats may have some or no winches, which also makes them easier to maintain. These boats can usually be sailed with one to four people.

Some sloops can scale up, providing a more challenging experience for sailors as they develop skills. Certain models can carry spinnakers and larger headsails to teach sail combinations and new sail trim techniques. Others offer the ability to hike out (shift crew weight well outboard to balance the boat against the wind pressure in the sails). This kind of sailing is more advanced.

Small Catamarans

Small catamarans provide extra stability for those who may be nervous about capsizing or aren’t fond of heeling (tipping while sailing). With two hulls providing a wide and stable base, catamarans area ideal for beginners, which may be why they’re often used by resorts as their beach sailing tourist boats. Rigged with one or two sails, small cats are tiller steered and usually have a trampoline that the students sit on and sail.

Rotomolded Boats

Small rotomolded boats are very forgiving due to their durable construction. Unlike fiberglass or wooden boats, rotomolded (a type of plastic construction technique) trainers can bounce off docks or other boats and cause or sustain little damage. Dinghies and catamarans can both be made via rotomolding.

Trailerable Sailboats

Finally, small sailboats that can be trailered to different locations add variety and that makes learning fun. Students can learn to sail in different wind and water conditions and enjoy their boats differently on vacation or with new friends.

Learning to sail involves all the senses and requires a level head and lots of practice and although it can be learned in many ways, the best way is to start with a boat that’s small, simple, safe and durable.

Read Next: Small Boats: What Are My Options?

You Might Also Like:

• Sailing Basics: 10 Nautical & Sailing Terms to Know
• Learning the Basics of Sailing
• Why Sailing?
• Find the Right Boat for Your Lifestyle
• Explore Sailboat Brands

Join Our Newsletter!

Get community news, buying bargains, and how-to guides at your fingertips.

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Sailing Totem
• Sailor & Galley
• Living Aboard
• Destinations
• Gear & Electronics
• Charter Resources
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

10 Affordable Cruising Catamarans

• By Phil Berman
• Updated: May 24, 2024

So, you want to get a catamaran , sail off into the sunset, and capture some magic with your lover or family for a few years. You have no ambition to sail around the world or to live aboard forever, but think a one- or two-year sabbatical might be life-changing. You’d like to sail the US East Coast, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, perhaps the Med—or up and down the West Coast and on to Mexico and Central America. You have $300,000 or less to spend and want a catamaran you can sell at the end of the journey without consuming a bottle of Tylenol to blunt the pain. 

The good news is that this is quite achievable. The bad news is that there is a vast wave of baby boomers who are all looking for the same thing—and for right around the same price. This makes finding a good deal on a great used catamaran a lot of work, even working with a broker. But, it’s possible. You just need to keep an open mind.

The other good news, which might seem surprising, is that an older catamaran, besides being more affordable, might sail just as well—or even better—than the same-size new cat that will cost considerably more. Yes, the older model might have less room inside and lack the latest condo-on-the-water styling, but it was designed and built before the current trend to supersize the newer generations of multihulls at the expense of sailing performance.

Here’s my advice to the cat hunter on a budget: Don’t get too hung up on the length of the boat. Instead, focus on the spatial and payload requirements you seek and which can be achieved within your budget. And best not get too focused on must-have features—what I jokingly call “surround-sound beds.” Catamaran designs and interiors have gone through massive changes in the past 10 to 20 years, and most older designs simply cannot compete with the new ones in terms of space and high-end amenities.

None of the cool cats I have in mind are over 47 feet. This is not because there aren’t bargain boats out there that are 47 feet and longer, but because any larger multihull that you can buy for $300,000 or less will most assuredly need a significant refit or is either very old or very odd. Buying a fixer-upper is, to my mind, the most dangerous thing a budget-minded consumer can do. It’s just too easy to underestimate the cost of yacht refits and repairs due to the extremely high prices charged in most boatyards. 

RELATED: 20 Best Cruising and Sailing Destinations

Nearly any cat you buy over 10 years old is fully depreciated. What we were selling a Lagoon 440 for eight or 10 years ago is nearly the same as what they sell for today. The difference between a good deal and a bad deal is tied solely to a yacht’s condition and refit history. As they joke in private-equity circles, “Any idiot can buy; you deserve congratulations only when you sell.”   

So, when your search gets underway, focus on ­condition—it is far more important than the year, brand or features you might crave. And when you find the cat of your dreams, the best way to remove financial-downside risk is to get a great survey and to choose the newest, smallest cat that will work for your agenda, not the oldest and biggest.

– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

And a word of caution: Your problem will be knowing a good deal from a bad one after the survey is over if you are not well-schooled in pricing. Besides steering you toward potential boats to consider, this is where a broker, working on your behalf, can provide knowledgeable advice. It’s been my experience that this is the point when so many yacht sales come apart: a dispute over the value of a given yacht when the survey results come in. All too commonly we see buyers reject yachts they should have accepted and purchase cats they should have rejected. Remember, a used yacht is a used yacht—not a perfect yacht. A catamaran need not be perfect to remain a perfectly good deal. Here, then, are 10 cool cats to ­consider in the ­$300,000-or-less range:

1. Fountaine Pajot Orana 44 (above)

Fountaine Pajot had the misfortune of tooling up this boat just before the global financial crisis, so not that many of them were built between 2007 and 2012. But these were the first of the larger-space charter cats in this size, but not yet so porky that they still could not sail decently. In the three-­cabin owner’s version, they designed the living space very nicely; even in the four-cabin version, the aft starboard bed was very well-done. 

During this period, Fountaine Pajot had problems with the resin it was using, which led to blistering on the hulls and undersides. Affected models therefore had new bottoms done at approved shipyards throughout the world. Make sure the one you are considering had this done or that it doesn’t show evidence of significant blistering. Honestly it is only cosmetic, but it will impact resale if not repaired. Many consumers think blisters are the end of the world; frankly, they are not.

2. Catana 431

Built in France by a long-­standing yard, the Catana 431 was always a very viable vessel because it is big enough to go anywhere, but not too large for a competent owner to handle. And because the 431 has good underwing clearance and daggerboards, it sails smartly to windward. 

That said, there are a few things to watch for. The primary bulkheads on many of these boats were not tabbed on the outer ends, and over time tended to distort. Often this led, or will lead, to a costly replacement of some bulkheads. So be careful to survey these areas properly. 

The 431′s furniture is all foam-cored and handmade, but the banding on the outer edges in some cases slowly starts to peel, which allows moisture to infect the wood veneer. This can create a somewhat unsightly appearance in the cabinets and drawers. It is only a cosmetic issue, but it can make the interior feel a bit worn out. 

During the period when the 431 was being built, Catana used a distributive electrical card system, and the boats had several modules, each a zone, to which electricity was run. If one thing in a zone stops working, the only solution is to jury-rig a wire from that nonworking item back to the main breaker panel. Replacing the modules or getting them repaired can be done, but it is getting harder by the year. For this reason, the best 431 is a boat that someone else had rewired at some point along the way.

3. Lagoon 470

If you need a larger escape pod, the Lagoon 470 is one of our favorites. This model of older Lagoons was built at CNB’s yard in Bordeaux, France, and the build quality was high. The 470 was the first design to have the more-vertical windows that are a Lagoon signature, and ample saloon headroom. The 470s are also old enough that the hulls were not so supersize that it compromised sailing performance. They have decent underwing clearance, so they are not persistent pounders to windward. Many were built with a galley-down layout, some in galley-up style. You will always pay more for an owner version of this or any model. 

The big thing you have to concern yourself with on Lagoons of this vintage is that the hulls and decks are made with a balsa core, so it is not uncommon to find moisture problems, especially around deck fittings or hatches. This can sometimes require rebedding or recoring areas, and this sort of repair, in North America, can be a costly undertaking. Make sure you get good moisture-meter readings near all deck fittings and, of course, on the hulls. Hulls, however, tend less often to have moisture issues because there are few fittings through which water can enter the core. Were that to happen below the waterline, it is a real mess that must be repaired immediately and properly.

– CARRY A BEACON – Satellite beacons such as EPIRBs or PLBs allow boaters to transmit distress signals and their exact coordinates from anywhere on the planet, no cell service required. It may be the best $400 you ever spend. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

4. Privilège 435

Back when the Privilège 435 was built, Privilège catamarans were constructed by Alliaura Marine in France, and they were truly the Mercedes of the multihull world at that time. While not a performance cat by any means, the 435 was a super-solid yacht, built with great care and the finest components. The 435 is large enough to go anywhere but small enough to handle easily. 

The largest negative of this model—and many cats of this vintage—is that the saloon windows slope dramatically, so the interior gets very hot unless the windows are covered most of the time. When they legalize growing pot on catamarans, here’s the perfect greenhouse for it! Seriously, if you should buy a used 435, you really have to get strong sunblocking external UV covers, as well as interior blinds or shades to inhibit heat buildup. 

Some of the 435s were laid out with the galley down in one hull, and these days most people want a galley-up arrangement, where cooking and food preparation are done in the saloon. A three-cabin galley-up owner version will be far more sought after and cost more than a four-cabin galley-down version. 

5. Leopard 46

This was the first of the Morrelli & Melvin collaborations with South African builder Robertson and Caine and the charter companies owned at the time by TUI Marine to create a catamaran that could be sold both into charter under the Moorings brand and also privately as a Leopard, so effort was made to design a boat with good sailing performance. Gino Morrelli did a good job creating a lot of underwing clearance, the 46 has a powerful rig, and yet its interior still offers spacious sleeping areas and nice flow from the cockpit to the saloon. These can be bought as ex-Moorings charter boats for less than $300,000 but are more costly in the sought-after Leopard owner version.

Because these are balsa-­cored boats, you must inspect deck fittings carefully for moisture incursion. Some of the earlier ones also experienced structural problems on the aft bulkhead and over-door-frame areas between saloon and cockpit. Also, during this period, the windows in the main saloon had a tendency to leak and, when they did, required rebedding or replacement. This was a costly job, so check this out carefully during survey.

6. St. Francis 44/Knysna 440

If you wish to spend under $250,000, the older Saint Francis 44 and Knysna 440 are worth a look.

Back in 1990, Duncan Lethbridge started St. Francis Catamarans in South Africa with the St. Francis 43. The boat was meant to be a fast, strong bluewater voyager—and it was. The 43 was made with foam core, keeping the structure light, and it was very strongly built, with a powerful rig. The 43 loved to sail. And so too did the St. Francis 44, an updated version of the original. 

The boat did have a couple of negatives, however, the first being its sloped windows that built up interior heat. And the boat wasn’t a great fit for tall people, having less than 6-foot-2-inch headroom in the hulls. Also, the engines were installed amidships, which made the boat noisy inside under power. It also made the amidships areas of the hulls too narrow to have centrally located heads and showers, which in turn meant the only layout available was a four-­cabin, four-head design. In the forward cabins, the heads and showers had to be far forward; in the aft cabins, the heads and showers were located far aft.

St. Francis sold the tooling for the 44 to Knysna Yachts in 2004, and Knysna raised the headroom in the saloon and moved the engines aft to each stern. The hulls remained fundamentally the same, but the design was improved nicely. 

The largest negative of both the Saint Francis 44 and the Knysna 440 is that they have very low underwing clearance. Things can get pretty noisy when pushing against ­washing-machine seas. 

But you cannot have it all and still pay less than $250,000 in a midsize cat; compromises must be made. And these boats do sail quite smartly compared with many in their size range.

7. Lagoon 440

This was the most popular catamaran ever made, and it started the catamaran flybridge craze, which helped to convert many powerboaters to sailors. 

What I like about the 440 is that it is an infinitely better sailer than some of its peers, and has decent underwing clearance, vertical windows, and nice cabins for sleeping and living. While the aft cockpit is rather small, the saloon is quite large.

Flybridges are a bit of a love-hate thing. There is no question that in a cat of this size, the windward performance suffers a bit due to the boom positioned so high off the water. When piloting, the skipper is separated from those on the bridgedeck. Part of the reason flybridges are so popular in charter is that most of the parties take place up there while sailing and at anchor. In private ownership, however, it is seldom that everyone is hanging out on the flybridge during a long passage. 

As always with Lagoons, these are balsa-cored boats, so a careful survey is in order. Pay attention also to bulkhead ­tabbing to make sure they have not separated from the hulls.

Because so many of the 440s were built to go into charter, there are a lot of four-cabin, four-head models for resale. These will sell for considerably less on the ­brokerage market than a ­coveted three-cabin, ­private-owner model.

– CHECK THE FIT – Follow these guidelines to make sure your life jacket looks good, stays comfortable and works when you need it. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

8. Leopard 40

When you get into the 40-foot size range, a four-cabin layout can become pretty cramped and claustrophobic below, but the three-cabin owner version of the Leopard 40 is a very nice pocket cruiser. A Morrelli & Melvin design, the 40 has good underwing clearance and nicely shaped hulls. Not a large cat, per se, and less-suited for significant distance sailing than others because its payload is limited, the 40 is still well-suited for a couple and a child or two for near-coastal and ­island-hopping action.

9. Manta 42

If you are searching for a cat in the $200,000 range, the Manta 42s were well-built in Florida, and their electrical systems were very well-done compared with many other multihulls of that era. While many of the features on the boat are quite dated, these Mantas sail very well, and easily, and have been popular with coastal cruisers for two decades. 

The largest negative of the Mantas is that people taller than 6 feet will find the saloon headroom right on the edge, and the berths are not especially large. Also, forward visibility from the saloon windows is not particularly panoramic, so the interiors are a bit darker inside than current-­generation catamarans.

10. Lagoon 410

The Lagoon 410 was quite a popular cat in its prime, and for good reason. It offers lots of visibility thanks to its vertical windows, good headroom for a cat of its size, nice berths, and a workable, though smallish, galley-up design. The 410 has decent underwing clearance, can sail nicely over the waves, and its singlehanded operation is super easy. In the three-cabin owner’s configuration, it’s just a very cool little cat.

As always, a balsa-core boat must be surveyed carefully, especially on deck, for moisture incursion near fittings and hatches. It can be costly to repair rotted core and to rebed deck fittings. But find a dry one, and it should definitely be counted as a contender for a buyer with a limited budget. 

Phil Berman is the president of the Multihull Company and the founder of Balance Catamarans. He has managed the sale of more than 900 catamarans.

• More: catamaran , lagoon , leopard , multihulls , print june july 2020 , Sailboats
• More Sailboats

Pre-Owned: 1988 Hylas 47

Catalina Introduces the 6 Series

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Understanding Wind in the West Indies

At Your Service

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Our Cats Love the Water!

Catamaran Cruisers Houseboats

8X31 LIL' HOBO TRAILERABLE

The newly designed 8'x31' Lil' Hobo trailerable is truly a model of efficiency.  Famous for its 2-for-1 value, it trailers as an RV to your favorite campsite and cruises equally well to a secluded cove for your next houseboat adventure.  For more than 25 years, the Lil' Hobo continues to be one of our most popular Catamaran Cruiser models. 

(Some options shown)

Catamaran Cruisers Lil Hobo Trailerable Houseboat

Catamaran Cruisers Lil Hobo Houseboat

Catamaran Cruisers 8' x 31' Houseboat

Trailerable Lil Hobo Houseboat

Lil Hobo Rear View with Slide & 60hp Yamaha

Catamaran Cruisers Lil Hobo Shower

Catamaran Cruisers Lil Hobo Bathroom

10 Best Catamarans in 2024

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:

• Multihulls are usually faster than monohulls, especially on downwind runs, reaches and broad reaches. You can travel further per day and outrun inclement weather
• They are more stable than a monohull. Sailing flat definitely has its advantages
•  It is less tiring sailing a multihull
•  More space!
•  For cruising the draft is less than a monohull which means you can go into shallower water safely

Top 5 Catamarans in 2024

All the catamarans we've tested.

Lagoon Catamarans

Where to buy:

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.

• Naval Architects: Van Peteghem-Lauriot Prevost (VPLP Design)
• Built: CNB Yards, Bordeaux, France
• Exterior Designer: Patrick le Quément
• Interior Designer: Nauta Design
• Length Overall: 11.74 m/ 38 feet, 6 inches
• Beam: 6.76 m/ 22 feet, 2 inches
• Draft: 1.35 m/ 4 feet, 5 inches
• Mast Clearance: 18.42 m/ 60 feet, 5 inches
• Sail Area: 80 square meters/ 861 square feet
• Engines: 2 x 29 hp Yanmar 3YM30 (upgradable to 45 hp)
• Fuel: 2 x 200 liters/ 56 gallons
• Fresh Water: 300 liters/ 76 gallons
• CE Certifications: A10/B12/C16/D20

Things we like:

Things we don't like:.

Leopard Catamarans

Where to buy Leopard 42:

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.

• Year Launched: 2021 (There have been several designs to carry the "Leopard 42" name)
• Designer: Alex Simonis
• Builder: Robertson and Caine, Cape Town, South Africa
• Length Overall: 41 feet, 7 inches/12.67 meters
• Beam: 23 feet, 1 inch/7.04 meters
• Draft: 4 feet, 7 inches/1.4 meters
• Mast Height: 67 feet, 10 inches/20.68 meters
• Power: 2x Yanmar 45 hp diesel engines
• Fuel: 158 gallons/600 liters
• Water: 174 gallons/660 liters
• Holding: 44 gallons/ 166 liters
• Upwind Total Sail Area: 1,217 square feet/113.1 square meters

Catamarans-Fountaine-Pajot.com

Fountain Pajot 80 Catamaran Superyacht

Where to buy Fountain Pajot 80 Catamaran Superyacht:

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.

• Length: 78.7 feet/23.98 meters
• Beam: 36.4 feet/11.09 meters
• Draft: 6.9 feet/2.10 meters
• Displacement: 66.0 tons (approximate)
• Sail area Main: 2,153 sqft/200 sqm Genoa 1,507 sqft/140 sqm
• Power options: 2x 175-hp, 270-hp, or 300-hp

Kinetic Catamarans

Kinetic KC54

Where to buy Kinetic KC54:

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.

• Length: 54 ft 2 in
• Beam: 27 ft 7 in
• Draft: Dagger Boards down 10.2 ft
• Standard Rudder up 4.5 ft
• Capacity: 3 or 4 double berths (6-8 persons)
• Motor: 2 x Yanmar 4JH80 - 80hp Diesel SD80
• Fuel Capacity: 264 gal
• Mast height: 85.3 ft (above water)
• Mainsail area: 1,102 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 264 gal

Xquisite Yachts

Xquisite X5 Plus

Where to buy Xquisite X5 Plus:

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 .

• Length: 53 ft
• Beam: 26 ft 2in
• Draft: 4 ft 4’
• Capacity: 3 double berths (6 persons)
• Motor: 2 x 80 HP Yanmar
• Fuel Capacity: 208 gal
• Mast height: 78 ft 7’ (above waterline)
• Mainsail area: 1,130 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 227 gal

McConaghy Boats

McConaghy MC60

Where to buy McConaghy MC60:

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 .

• Length: 60 ft 04 in
• Beam: 28 ft 2 in
• Draft: 4 ft 7 in with centreboards up
• 12 ft 4 in with centreboards down
• Capacity: 2 double berths & 1 - 2 twin (6 - 8 persons)
• Motor: 2 x 57 HP
• Fuel Capacity: 123.19 gal
• Mast height: 92.85 ft
• Mainsail area: 2,034 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 123.19 gal

Sunreef Yachts

Where to buy Sunreef 80:

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.

• Length: 80 ft
• Beam: 37 ft 7 in
• Draft: 7 ft 218 in
• Capacity: 4 - 5 double berths plus optional crew of 3 (8 - 10 persons plus crew max of 3)
• Motor: 2 x 280 HP John Deeres
• Fuel Capacity: 634.01 to 1585.03 gal
• Mast height: 2185 ft
• Mainsail area: 2152.78 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 422.68 gal

HH Catamarans

HH50 cruiser

Where to buy HH50 cruiser:

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.

• Length: 51 ft 8 in
• Beam: 24 ft 41 in
• Draft: 5 ft 43 in Board down
• 10 ft 83 in Board up
• Capacity: 2 double berths and 1-2 single (4 - 6 persons)
• Motor: 2 x Yanmar 40HP
• Fuel Capacity: 131.98 gal
• Mast height: 75 ft 36 in
• Mainsail area: 873.28 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 87.99 gal

Excess Catamarans

Where to buy Excess 11:

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

• Length: 37 ft 5 in
• Beam: 21 ft 7 in
• Draft: 3 ft 9 in
• Capacity: 3 - 4 double berths (6 - 8 persons)
• Motor: 2 x 29HP
• Fuel Capacity: 106 gal
• Mast height: 56 ft 8 in
• Mainsail area: 592 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 79 gal

Bali Catamarans

BALI Catspace

Where to buy BALI Catspace:

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

• Length: 40 ft 39 in
• Beam: 21 ft 59 in
• Draft: 3 ft 91 in Boards up
• Motor: 2 x 20HP up to 2 x 40HP
• Fuel Capacity: 107.78 gal
• Mast height: 58 ft 56 in
• Mainsail area: 1,087 sqft
• Fresh Water tank: 167 gal

Big ‘blue water’ Sailing

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 questions to ask yourself

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!

Review of Our Favorite 15 Multihulls 2024

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!

Related Reviews

Read full review

Final Thoughts

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.

Before you sign the cheque….

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:

•       Pre-book buyer’s sea trials for your shortlist
•       Select the perfect sailing vessel for you (and if it’s for your family make sure they agree too!)
•       Used – get a certified hull survey, safety comes first
•       Get annual insurance quotes
•       Calculate dockage – purchase or rent a slip or dock
•       Calculate monthly upkeep and maintenance
•       Calculate extra costs like navigational devices & fittings
•       Draft your own checklist
•       Draft & sign off sale & purchase contracts
•       Draft & sign off a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
•       Ensure you are satisfied 100%
•       Execute payment and take transfer of ownership
•       Register and insure your vessel

Check all necessary Stock is aboard – Sail away!

Pre-Departure Checklist

Some ideas for you –

• Always pre-check the weather and wind conditions prior to any excursion on the water
• Always know the tide table in your head, so you know what the ocean is doing at all times, incoming or outgoing tide, and what is the tidal range if you are in an ocean estuary or channel.
• Check you have fuel, water, food and all the basics before loading passengers aboard, and follow these easy steps to ensure safety is first at all times.
• Plan your upcoming voyage, does it feature high swells, rocky shores, and cold water
• Check Safety equipment, making sure you have enough life jackets for all sea-farers
• Check sails, sheets and lines. All sailing gear
• Check your engines – Open fuel lines, check oil and spark plugs
• Check fuel tank levels and have extra fuel aboard for an emergency
• Start the motor, make sure water is coming out to cool the motor
• Test both forward and reverse gears on the engine before guests board
• Check that you have a working and full battery communications radio, with all correct channels programmed, and that all the vessel lights and electrics are in working order
• Check for first aid kits, manual hand pump, paddles, lifejackets , additional lines, fresh drinking water and food for passengers plus some spare in case your voyage is longer than expected, necessary repair tools & kit and flags
• Strap any equipment and gear down safely before you start to motor
• If you have passengers boarding, ensure you give a proper safety briefing and point out where all the safety gear is on the vessel. Children should be included in the briefing and be secured properly before departure

Catamarans versus Trimarans

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.

How Safe are Multihull Boats at Sea?

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?

As Blue Water Sailing Vessels

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.

Solo Sailing a Multihull

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:

• What the minimum length of the vessel would suit your needs to handle on your own
• Layout planning is essential
• Space you need
• The bigger the boat means larger sails which will be harder to raise and repair
• The bigger the boat means more power and speed – be comfortable with your vessel
• Update your sailing skills

Finding the Right Size

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 :

• A smaller vessel is always pitching and yawing and this impacts the crew negatively over a long period of time or in crisis situations
• Low bridge deck clearance due to the small size of the vessel
• when sailing upwind the waves are projected with speed and force into the decks understand (between the pontoons) creating bridge deck slamming.  This vibration and noise impacts the crew and is very tiring – sailing downwind to prevent this may not be where you want to go
• Not having enough space for all the supplies and equipment needed for a long passage
• Alongside the problem of weight to be carried is the problem of distribution of this weight over the length of the vessel safely

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!

The question everyone wants to know – how much does it cost to live onboard?

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.

What do I need to consider differently to live on-board rather than racing ?

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: 

• Leopard Catamarans – 41 ft 7 in – Leopard 42
• Balance Yachts – 48 ft 26 in – Balance 482
• Kinetic Catamarans – 54 ft 2 in – Kinetic KC54
• Xquisite Yachts – 53 ft – Xquisite X5
• McConaughey – 60 ft 1 in – MC60
• Sunreef Yachts – 80 ft – Sunreef 80
• Leopard Catamarans – 50 ft 6 in – Leopard 50
• Voyage Yachts – 57 ft 42 in – Voyage 590
• Seawind – 52 ft 8 in – Seawind 1600
• HH Catamarans – 52 ft – HH50
• Fountaine Pajot – 39 ft 14 in – Isla 40
• Lagoon-Beneteau Group – 38 ft 5 in – Lagoon 40
• Excess Catamarans – 37 ft 2 in – Excess 11
• Maverick Yachts of SA – 44 ft – Maverick 440
• Chantier CATANA – 37 ft 5 in – Catspace

Frequently asked questions about Catamarans

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.

On this page

Table of content:, breadcrumbs.

• / Catamarans

Continue reading

Monterey 224FS

VIVOHOME Vinyl Boat Fender

Orion Safety 865

Everglades 243cc Bay

Gallery of catamarans review.

Three sailboats racing in the Indian Ocean

• Waterproof Backpacks
• Duffel Bags
• Hiking Backpacks
• Waterproof Gear
• Teepee Tents
• Camping Chairs
• Heated Socks
• Marine Binoculars
• Night Vision Goggles
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Collapsible and Folding Wagons
• Portable Power Stations

• Dive Computer
• Scuba Diving BCD
• Scuba Regulators
• Freediving Fins
• Diving Wetsuits
• Women’s Wetsuits
• Scuba Diving Drysuits
• Rebreathers
• Scuba Diving Masks
• Snorkel Masks
• Full Face Diving Mask
• Full Face Snorkel Masks
• Prescription Dive Masks
• Prescription Snorkel Masks
• Snorkeling Gear
• Kids Wetsuits
• Seiko Dive Watches
• Best Underwater Cameras
• Waterproof Cameras
• Underwater Scooters
• Best Dive Knife
• Dive Lights
• Underwater Metal Detector
• Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Scuba Tanks
• Dive Destinations
• Liveaboards

• Paddle boards (SUP)
• Best Touring Paddle Boards
• Best Beginner Paddle Boards
• Motorized paddle boards
• Electric SUP Pumps
• Paddles For Paddle Boarding

• Beach Chairs
• Beach Umbrellas
• Beach Wagons
• Beach Tents
• Beach Canopy
• Beach Towels
• Beach Blankets
• Water Shoes
• Water Socks
• Boogie Boards

• Swimming Goggles
• Swimming Fins
• Swimming Earplugs
• Women’s Swim Shorts

• Getting into Sailing
• Life Jackets
• Marine Flares
• Waterproof Marine Radios
• Pontoon Boat Accessories
• Sailing Gloves
• Boat Fenders

• Inflatable Kayak
• Folding Kayaks
• Tandem Kayaks
• Sit On Top Kayaks
• Sea Touring Kayaks
• Ocean Kayak
• Pedal Kayaks
• Fishing Kayaks
• Kayak Life Vests
• Kayak Shoes
• Kayak Paddles
• Kayak Trailers
• Kayak Anchors
• How to Choose a Kayak – A Beginner’s Guide
• How To Choose a Kayak Paddle? [What You Need to Know]
• Kayaking Gear for Beginners
• What to Wear Kayaking
• Kayak Safety

• All Mountain Snowboards
• Snowboard Boots
• Snowboard Bindings
• Snowboard Helmets
• Snowboard Jackets
• Atomic Skis
• Blizzard Skis
• Ski Resorts in the US

• Travel Backpacks
• Weekender Bags
• Packing Cubes
• Suitcases and Travel Luggages
• The Best All-inclusive Resorts in the World

• Men’s Yoga Pants
• Yoga Shorts
• Yoga Mat Bags
• Yoga Blocks

• Laptop Backpack
• Mini Backpacks
• Mesh Backpacks
• Clear Backpacks
• Fanny Packs
• Water Bottles

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Pants
• Waterproof Watches
• Waterproof Headphones
• Snorkel Fins
• Best Snorkels
• Best Dive Sites in the World
• Best Dive Resorts in the World
• Central & South America
• North America
• Southeast Asia
• Indian Ocean
• Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Red Sea
• All Liveaboards
• Liveaboards in Australia
• Liveaboards in Fiji
• Liveaboards in Micronesia
• Liveaboards in Myanmar (Burma)
• Liveaboards in the Maldives
• Liveaboards in the Philippines
• Liveaboards in Egypt
• Liveaboards in Costa Rica
• Liveaboards in Belize
• Liveaboards in Mexico
• Liveaboards in the Galapagos Islands
• Aggressor Liveaboards
• Liveaboard in Thailand
• Liveaboards in Indonesia
• The Best Starboard Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Bluefin Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Isle Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Red Paddle Co. Ride 10’6
• ROC Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• The Best iRocker Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
• Blackfin Paddle Boards
• Pontoon Boats
• Bowrider Boats
• Motor Yachts
• Cabin Cruiser Boats
• Inflatable Boats
• Electric Surfboard
• Efoil Board
• Jet Body Boards
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Ski Poles for Downhill & Touring
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Gloves and Mittens
• Ski Jackets
• Ski and Snowboarding Pants and Bibs
• Ski Helmets
• Best Resorts in North America
• Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort
• Copper Mountain Ski Resort
• Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort Area Review
• Jackson Hole Ski Resort
• Telluride Ski Resort
• Aspen Ski Resort
• Crested Butte Ski Resort
• Kirkwood Ski Resort
• Alta Ski Resor
• Park City Ski Resort
• Winter Park Resort
• Breckenridge Ski Resort
• Vail Ski Resort
• Snowmass Ski Resort
• Heavenly Ski Resort
• Taos Ski Valley
• Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort
• Ski Santa Fe
• Angel Fire Ski Resort
• Sun Valley Ski resort
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Aruba
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Cabo
• All-inclusive resort in Cancun
• All-Inclusive Resorts In Costa Rica
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Cozumel
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Hawaii
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
• All-Inclusive Puerto Rico Resorts
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Turks and Caicos
• Best Diving in the Caribbean
• Diving in Guadeloupe
• Diving in Aruba
• Diving in Antigua and Barbuda
• Diving in the Bahamas
• Diving in Barbados
• Diving in Bonaire
• Diving in the British Virgin Islands
• Diving in Cayman Islands
• Diving in Cuba
• Diving in Curacao
• Diving in Dominican Republic
• Diving in Grenada
• Diving in Jamaica
• Diving in Martinique
• Diving in Puerto Rico
• Diving in St. Maarten
• Diving in St. Lucia
• Diving in Tobago
• Diving in the Turks and Caicos
• Diving in Belize
• Diving in Costa Rica
• Diving in the Galapagos Islands
• Diving in Mexico
• Diving in Roatan Honduras
• Diving in California
• Diving in Florida
• Diving in North Carolina
• Best Diving in Southeast Asia
• Diving in Thailand
• Diving in the Philippines
• Diving in Indonesia
• Diving in Vietnam
• Diving in Cambodia
• Diving in the Maldives
• Diving in Australia
• Diving in Japan
• Diving in Fiji
• Best Diving in Europe
• Diving in Mallorca
• Diving in Malta
• Diving In Denmark
• Diving in Egypt
• All Liveaboards in Thailand
• Liveaboards in the Similan Islands
• All Liveaboards in Indonesia
• Liveaboards in Komodo
• Women’s Life Vest
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Playa del Carmen
• All Diving in Mexico
• Diving in Cozumel
• Diving In Similan Islands – Khao Lak Area
• Diving in Malapascua
• All the Diving in Indonesia
• Diving in Bali
• Diving in Gili Islands
• Diving in Komodo
• Diving in Sulawesi
• Diving in Raja Ampat
• All Diving in Australia
• Diving In Brothers Islands

Paddle boarding

Everyday Life

12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of contents

Best Catamarans

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

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

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

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

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Antares 44i

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atlantic 42

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gemini 105MC

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

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

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

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

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

Lagoon 450 F

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Privilege 615

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

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

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

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

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

Related Articles

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

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

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.

Similar Posts

Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

September 13, 2023

Best Small Sailboats With Standing Headroom

December 28, 2023

Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $50K

Popular posts.

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Croatia: Walking & Island-Hopping Along the Dalmatian Coast

9 days, dubrovnik to trogir.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Croatia’s stunning coastline calls on this nine-day adventure through historic towns and dazzling Adriatic islands. Explore Dubrovnik from every angle — on foot, by kayak, and from a cable car ride to the mountain's peak. Hop on hydrofoils and high-speed catamarans to discover the islands of Korčula and Hvar, then sail by private boat to the Pakleni Islands for a day of walking, swimming, and sun-soaked bliss. Wander Split’s old town and hike to the breathtaking Krka Waterfalls. With a perfect blend of action, culture, and mouthwatering food, Croatia will capture your heart and leave you craving more.

Dubrovnik to Trogir

Is this tour for me, travel style: the geluxe collection.

With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations, and comfort at their very core, these premium active trips are adventure at its finest.

Service Level: Upgraded

Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12

Age requirement: 18+

Check your visa requirements.

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

Chief Experience Officers with a capital E

Call us biased but we've seen 30+ years of proof: our Chief Experience Officers are the best travel guides on the planet. And on Geluxe trips, you'll be led by the most experienced CEOs we have.

CEO Costa Rica

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 9

Places visited

Day 1 dubrovnik: a gem of the adriatic.

Take in the long stretch of the Adriatic coastline as your plane makes it's descent As the high stone walls and medieval buildings come into view, imagine life here thousands of years ago and perhaps even the occasional dragon beating its wings in the distance. We welcome you to Dubrovnik and to Croatia, and we invite you to unleash your sense of adventure and imagination as you discover the best of the country's coast and islands.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 2 dubrovnik: from below and above.

Often the best views of the city are actually from outside of it. Put that theory to the test as you paddle a kayak along the historic city walls, exploring hidden caves and stopping to swim and snorkel. Back on dry land, you'll swap the views from the water for views from above as you ride a cable car up nearby Mount Srđ for breathtaking vistas of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands.

Day 3 Korčula: Along the Dalmatian Coast

Dubrovnik begs to be further explored and you'll have some extra time to do so today on your own. Soak in every last bit of the city's beauty before taking to the sea and heading up the Dalmatian Coast to the island of Korčula for your first taste of life on the Croatian isles.

Day 4 Korčula: Your OMG Day

Discover Korčula today on your own terms. Choose between 2 activities which will get you outdoors and active as well as sampling some of the regions delicacies. Whichever you choose, your body,, mind and stomach will be forever grateful.

Day 5 Hvar: Island Life

The Dalmatian Islands are nothing short of spectacular and each one is quite unique with its own feel. Swap Korčula Island for Hvar and see for yourself, exploring the town of Hvar as well as taking in the island's gorgeous beaches and lively nightlife.

Day 6 Hvar: A Day on the Water

Feel the wind on your face and taste the sea in the air as you head out from Hvar to explore some of the nearby islands. You'll spend the day in and out of the water, exploring hidden coves, swimming from the boat and hiking to a secluded beach. If you. could imagine a perfect day actively exploring and island-hopping in the sun and sand, this would be it.

Day 7 Trogir: Explore Split

Back on the mainland, the city of Split is the largest along Croatia's coast, where you'll be immersed in its history and beautiful architecture in the old part of the city. An important maritime transport hub in the region, Split occupies a strategic position on a peninsula that juts out into the Adriatic Sea, and has been inhabited for over 2000 years.

Day 8 Trogir: Krka Waterfalls and National Park

Immerse yourself in Croatia's natural beauty on a hike through a lush forest, following a river until the sight of a breathtaking waterfall comes into view. Enjoy the moment and the sound of the cascading water before re-entering the forest and allowing the sound of the birds to take over. Back in urban civilization, take in more beautiful architecture and historical landmarks in Sibenik on the way back to Trogir.

Day 9 Trogir

The adventure finishes today, and you can depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your OMG Day: Korčula Biking or Hiking and Winery Visit, Korčula
• Complimentary arrival transfer
• Evening guided walking tour of Dubrovnik's old town
• Welcome dinner
• Kayaking excursion along Dubrovnik's old city walls
• Cable car ride up Mount Srd
• Orientation walk of Korčula
• Guided walking tour of Hvar town
• Full-day excursion by private boat to the Pakleni Islands
• Guided Walking tour of the Old Town of Split
• Orientation walk in Trogir
• Hike in Krka National Park to the Skradinski Buk Waterfall
• Guided Walking tour of Sibenik
• Farewell Dinner
• Transport to/from all included activities and between all destinations

Accommodations

Hotels (8 nts).

8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners Allow USD250-325 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, kayaking, cable car, hydrofoil, high-speed catamaran, private boat, walking,

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $1899.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

The 8 Fastest Cruising Catamarans (With Speedchart)

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.

Cruising catamarans are some of the most comfortable boats to roam the water, making them fantastic for both long-term voyages and short-term vacations. Still, cruising catamarans can be great racing boats, but just how fast can they go?

Some of the fastest cruising catamarans include the Gunboat 68 (35 knots), Outremer 45 (25 knots), ORC50 (25 knots), FastCat 435 (20 knots), TS 42 (35 knots), and Lagoon 440 (20 knots). Yet, there are many more cats that can reach 35 knots safely. 

If you are interested in knowing about the fastest cruising catamarans, I have you covered. I will be discussing some of the most popular, fastest cruising catamarans and the features that make them so excellent for sailors in need of speed. You will learn more about each catamaran’s speed and amenities, and I will let you know a trick or two to maximize your speed under sail. 

How Fast Are Cruising Catamarans?

On average, cruising catamarans can reach top speeds of 15 knots , around 17.3 mph (27.84 kph). However, some exceptional, racing-designed cruising catamarans can reach up to 30+ knots in the right wind conditions. 

When you want to better understand catamaran hull characteristics, I suggest the book Catamarans a Complete Guide (amazon link) by the president of Aeroyacht catamarans and that you check out my article Why catamarans capsize .

Factors That Impact Speed

Weight & size.

When you consider a catamaran’s speed, you will need to keep in mind the boat’s weight and narrowness. A vessel that can travel at 15 knots will still move slower if the boat is heavy or has a wide, extensive hull. When increasing the total weight of the boat, the boat “sits” lower in the water, thus increasing water drag and reducing speed.

Why trimarans are faster than catamarans!

Now that we know how weight impacts sailing characteristics, it follows that; if you are planning on racing your catamaran, you should remove as much luggage or extra gear as possible. Eliminating as much weight as possible will help you travel at your cat’s maximum speed .

Narrow Hulls

The hydrodynamics of the ship will heavily affect your speed. Narrower boats can chop through the water with less effort, making slender ships with pointed hulls far faster than wide vessels. So if you are looking for the fastest one available, you should look for a slender hull.

Slim hulls vs. space is a common tradeoff for catamarans optimized for family sailing .

Wind will also affect your ship’s speed, so do not expect your cruising catamaran to reach the maximum speed without heavy wind. Generally, cruising catamarans have two large sails (at least) to power them through the water, and some are so efficient that they can travel even faster than the wind.

Although a strong wind is needed to energize the sails and move the boat, too much wind will instead make the sails less efficient, and maximum speed is most often attained at lower wind speeds but with flat water.

Light Weight Materials

Faster cruising catamarans are often made from carbon fiber materials and fiberglass to keep the weight down. If you are looking for the quickest catamaran that you can find, you should note the materials that the ship is made out of and try to get one that is primarily made from carbon, glass, and resin materials. 

While you are looking for the perfect catamaran for you, you should keep in mind what you NEED and what is NICE with your ship. Usually, this decision is between size and speed, but some of these excellent vessels have both. 

Lightweight materials are usually costly; for example, a carbon fiber mast will probably cost you +$20 000, depending on the cat’s size.

I have written a buyer’s guide that explains the concept of NEED vs. NICE , which will make choosing the right boat faster and more accurate.

Gunboat 68 (+35Kts)

Gunboat 68 is a cruising catamaran designed to reach the highest speeds possible. Made by Gunboat, the ship uses Grand-Prix racing boats’ designs to develop the speediest cruising catamaran on the market. 

Gunboat 68 is made entirely from carbon composites, which keeps the ship lightweight and fast. Gunboat 68 is the perfect catamaran for anyone who wants to reach the highest speeds possible while maintaining control of the vessel and not bouncing around too much. 

Gunboat 68 has comfortable, spacious living quarters, though it also has a spacious deck with luxurious seating. Indeed, this cat has it all, making it one of the best cruising catamarans for racers and casual sailors. The design maximizes all of the living spaces and uses lightweight materials to add elegance and luxury to a speedy racing catamaran. 

Gunboat 68 is one of the fastest cruising cats out there, with its maximum speed at more than 30 knots . Gunboat 68 can achieve these fast speeds, thanks to its lightweight construction and narrow hull design. 

Still, Gunboat can customize your ship’s plan to accommodate your needs. Whether you are looking for a faster, more lightweight boat with a more extensive sail or a more comfortable cruiser, Gunboat 68 is an excellent option for you. 

Specifications

• Maximum Speed: 35 knots
• Length: 68 ft (20.75 m)
• Beam: 29.9 ft (9.1 m)
• Draft: 3.9 ft (1.2 m) board up and 9.84 ft (3.8 m) board down
• Displacement: 23.7 tonnes

TS 42 (ORC 42)

The TS, or Tres Simple , cruising catamarans, designed by Marsaudon Composites, are some of the fastest cruising catamarans in the world. 

Marsaudon developed the ship’s plans using racing boats’ streamlined designs and combined them with a cruising catamaran’s comfortable living spaces. The TS 42 has an inverted hull which helps it glide on the water swiftly without requiring much fuel, but it also has a spacious below-deck area with plenty of luxuries.

TS cruising catamarans are often considered the fastest cruisers on the market, with their speed comfortably reaching upwards of 35 knots in the right wind conditions. Generally, TS catamarans can sail at 20 knots, even with moderate wind. They are the perfect catamaran for racers and high-speed travelers, and yet they still have the amenities of a pleasant live-in vessel. 

The TS 42 has a large galley and comfortable cabins, making it a cozy home or vacation vessel. With multiple bathrooms, large windows, and open lounge spaces, these catamarans are superbly comfortable to live in. 

The deck and cabin space are divided by a large, openable window, which adds extra light and ventilation to the living areas. It also has plenty of on-deck space, which is rare in such a small vessel with an inverted hull. 

If you think I’m using too many confusing nautical terms, you’ll find all the answers on my Catamaran parts explained page .

• Length: 42.8 ft (13 m)
• Beam: 24.3 ft (7.4 m)
• Draft: 4.9 ft (1.5 m) with boards up and 7.5 ft (2.3 m) with boards down
• Displacement: 5.8 tonnes

Outremer 45

Based in France, Outremer (pronounced uutremeer 😉 ) designed their Outremer 45 to be a long-lasting cruising catamaran that sails smoothly at high speeds. The Outremer 45 can reach about 15 knots, but the most comfortable sailing speed is 10 knots. However, it can travel up to 25 knots in the right wind conditions, making it a quick ship with all of a perfect cruising catamaran’s luxuries. 

It is made for durability from carbon, vinyl ester, and divinycell so that it can last many years without repairs. The Outremer 45 has a narrow hull, and it is designed to be as thin as possible to maximize speed and fuel efficiency. Outremer 45 still has comfortable living quarters with large windows and lounge spaces within the boat. Indeed, it sacrifices no comfort for speed.

In this article, I talk a lot about catamaran characteristics, both interior and exterior, if that’s something you want to better understand, then I recommend an article where I write about trade-offs in design choices .

The Outremer 45 was initially designed to be a boat that would last 50 or more years, and it excels in its durability. It has an open, uniquely expansive side deck and plenty of on-deck conveniences that make sailing a breeze in the ORC50.

With supreme safety features such as tall railings, slip-free grips on deck, and enclosed lounge spaces, it is one of the safest catamarans available (is safety your top concern? I wrote a list of the safest catamarans on the market). 

• Maximum Speed: 25 knots
• Length: 48 ft (14.6 m)
• Beam: 23.3 ft (7.1 m)
• Draft: 3.3 ft (1 m) with boards up and 6.7 ft (2.04 m) with boards down
• Displacement: 8.2 to 11.1 tonnes

Marsaudon Composites ORC50

Marsaudon Composites designed the ORC50, or Ocean Rider Catamaran 50, with both speed and comfort in mind. The ORC50 can be used for cruising, but it is also a great racing boat that has been awarded honors from many races worldwide.

Marsaudon borrowed designs from racing skippers to plan the ORC50, bringing together a cruiser’s comfort with the speed of an award-winning racing boat. 

This cruising catamaran is lightweight, which allows it to gain speed at a fast rate, but still has comfortable living quarters inside the boat. It has a rotating carbon mast, which helps to eliminate turbulence over the mainsail and therefore increasing sail efficiency and speed!

With strong winds, the ORC50 can reach up to 23 knots , making it extremely fast for a cruising catamaran. The ORC50 can easily reach speeds much faster than the wind speed, which is a unique quality of this fast, yet comfortable catamaran.

The ORC50 is an excellent long-term living ship with its many organizational compartments, expansive galley, and well-ventilated sleeping cabin. It also has plenty of couches and seating areas built into the boat, and its intuitive design adds plenty of comfort to the cruising catamaran without weighing down the ship. 

• Length: 50 ft (15.23 m)
• Beam: 27 ft (8.2 m)
• Draft: 5.6 ft (1.7 m) with boards up and 8.9 ft (2.7 m) with boards down
• Displacement: 13 tonnes

FastCat 435

African Cat’s catamarans, including the FastCat 435, are designed for speed and racing. This ship is mainly composed of epoxy, fiberglass, and carbon components, making it very lightweight to ensure that it travels as swiftly as possible. 

The FastCat 435 may be as light as possible, but it is durable enough to last for many years in the most extreme conditions.

The FastCat 435 has comfortable living quarters and well-designed comfort spaces so that you can get the most out of your trips. The FastCat also has a green hybrid design, and it uses primarily electric power, which can help you prolong your sailing and use less fuel. 

I find solar-powered/electric cats pretty exciting, so much so that I wrote an entire article called The Best Solar-Powered Catamarans on the subject.

The FastCat is an excellent option for anyone who wants a smaller cat with a comfortable design and incredible speed. FastCat’s electric power is also a unique, favorable feature for anyone who wants to use less fuel. 

• Maximum Speed: 20 knots
• Length: 42.7 ft (13 m)
• Beam: 24.4 ft (7.4 m)
• Draft: 3.9 ft (1.2 m) with boards up
• Displacement: 2.4 tonnes

The Lagoon 440 cruising catamaran, like the FastCat, has an electric powering version, which cuts down on fossil fuel usage and ensures that your ship will keep moving. The Lagoon 440 is also among the easiest catamarans to maneuver, thanks to its electric drivetrain and automatic engines. 

The speed of the Lagoon 440 usually maxes out at 10 knots with low winds, but with higher winds, it can quickly gain speeds up to 20 knots (some argue even higher, but I’m doubtful). The Lagoon 440 is an excellent cruiser and comfortable catamaran, but it is not an all-out racing cat.

Lagoon is a well-known brand, but there are some caveats, and are Lagoons still making good catamarans?

Below the deck, the living spaces in the Lagoon 440 are magnificent. The ceilings are high, allowing the tallest of passengers to stand in the cabin. The many storage compartments and furnishings have a modern, elegant design. The interior is one large primary cabin with a few private spaces below the deck. 

• Length: 44.6 ft (13.6 m)
• Beam: 25.3 ft (7.7 m)
• Draft: 4.3 ft (1.3 m)
• Displacement: 10.5 tonnes

Fountaine Pajot Astréa 42

Fountaine Pajot designs some of the most luxurious yet speedy cruising catamarans available in the world. They are renowned for their safe, durable designs that make sailing a comfortable, relaxing experience. And on a personal note, i think the name sounds beautiful!

Their cruising catamarans use an inverted hull design that has become a signature mark of Fountaine Pajot vessels. This hull type allows the water to pass beneath the ship quickly, which increases the speed and fuel efficiency of the cat. 

The Astréa 42’s primary benefit is its spacious, comfortable living quarters and large, open deck spaces. The ship’s interior spaces have large windows, large lounging areas, and plenty of storage compartments. 

The cabin’s ventilation is also excellent, which reduces the classic musty smells of sea living. You can also get two different models of this catamaran, either in a one-cabin option or a two-cabin option, making it an excellent vessel for larger or smaller families.

The Astréa is ideal for long-term sea living and family vacations (it is not as fast as some more racing-oriented cats). Although the Astréa is not the speediest cat available, with its speed maxing out at about 10+ knots, even in favorable wind conditions, its luxurious atmosphere and comfortable cabin spaces make up for its relatively slow speed. 

Don’t get me wrong, despite its lower speed compared to the boats on this list, the Astréa 42 can still get you places quicker than many other cruising catamarans (and most monohulls). So, if you want all of the elegance and comfort of a cat and are not too worried about racing, this ship is an excellent option for you.  

• Maximum Speed: 10 knots
• Length: 41.3 ft (12.6 m)
• Beam: 23.6 ft (7.2 m)
• Draft: 4.1 ft (1.3 m)
• Displacement: 12.3 tonnes

Privilege Signature 510

The Privilege Signature 510 is a long-distance cruising catamaran designed for long-term voyages and sailing in extreme weather conditions. It features a durable, weatherproof design that will protect you from rainy and cold weather while sailing. 

The helm and living spaces are completely covered, making it safe to live in, even in cold or stormy weather. It also has an automatic sail adjustment system with the controls at the helm, allowing you to make any adjustments from the helm’s safety and comfort. 

Privilege Signature 510 also has an elegant, well-designed living space with plenty of amenities, including an accelerated cooling system, a spacious bathroom and kitchen, and plenty of windows for natural lighting.

With an elegant floor plan, this cozy ship is perfect for long-term living.

The Privilege Signature is not the fastest catamaran on the market, with a maximum speed of around 13 knots. Still, it is one of the quicker cats considering its elaborate amenities and comfortable size.

• Maximum Speed: 13 knots
• Length: 50 ft (15.24 m)
• Beam: 26 ft (7.98 m)
• Draft: 5 ft (1.57 m)
• Displacement: 25 tonnes

Although cruising catamarans are great boats for slowly cruising along the water, they can also be swift, substantial racing boats that reach speeds of up to 35 knots. These speedy cruising catamarans still come with all of the amenities of leisure boats, but they also reach incredible speeds without rocking or tossing. 

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

Must-Have Boat Gear for Catamaran Sailors!

Sailing is probably the most gear-intensive activity I've ever done; there are so many decisions to be made about what gear to buy now, for tomorrow, and what to definitely never buy. The gear on...

6 Best Trailerable Trimarans For Bluewater and Coastal Sailing

Having a boat costs a lot of money, even when you are not using it, marina fees, etc. And once it is in the water most sailors never go very far from their "home marina" and sailing will be somewhat...