The Benefits of a Catamaran

There is always a great debate between which is better the multi hull or the mono hull.  While both have their pros and cons, I certainly recommending researching the benefits of a catamaran thoroughly before making a decision. All serious sailors should at least consider whether or not a catamaran would best suit their purpose and preferences.

Some of the main benefits offered by a catamaran include;

*Stability – one of the major advantages of a catamaran over a monohull is stability.  This is an important safety consideration as a catamaran is less likely to feel the effects of a wave making it much easier to walk around the deck and living spaces.  A modern cat will rarely heel more than 5-10 degrees. This should prove a much more pleasant ride for those who suffer sea sickness or are perhaps a little less steady on their feet such as the elderly or children.

*Space – generally a catamaran offers more living space than a monohull.  As an estimate a cat will offer the equivalent living space to monohull 20% larger in length. Having the cockpit and living areas split between 2 hulls is usually very spacious compared to a similar size monohull.

*Visibility – Most newer model catamarans feature a raised or flybridge helm offering superior visibility.

*Liveability – on a catamaran most of the living spaces such as the galley, main salon and cockpit are all located above the water. This offers better views and better ventilation.

*Manoeuvrability – Having two engines located approximately a long way apart reduces the need for a bow thruster and allows for excellent control in tight spaces. Catamarans also have shallow drafts, usually under 1.3m, allowing you to navigate into places that you wouldn’t be able to access with a monohull and allowing you to anchor closer to shore. This is also a bonus for under hull work and antifouling.

*Buoyancy – Catamarans have natural buoyancy making them unsinkable. They can certainly capsize in the event of very rare dangerous weather conditions but will not sink. Even when extremely damaged, the catamaran will still float.

*Fuel efficiency – Catamarans are much more fuel efficient than a monohull and in light winds are capable of using just one engine to propel the boat.

As WA’s exclusive representative for Lagoon Catamarans as well as many power boat brands such as Ocean Alexander, Galeon, Axopar, Pardo, Sirena and Greenline – Motoryachts Unlimited can offer you unbiased and expert advice on which vessel would actually best suit your purpose and needs.