No matter the project—a coastal cruise, a transatlantic voyage to the Caribbean, or a tour of the Mediterranean—the choice of boat is crucial. And it all starts with choosing between a multihull or a monohull.
Choosing between a catamaran, a trimaran, and a monohull means choosing between different programs and types of sailing. But this choice also depends on your mindset. The living space will not be the same on a catamaran as on a monohull. The sensations and comfort while sailing will also be completely different.
This choice will therefore depend on what you want to do at sea and during stopovers. Whether you want to sail with a small crew or invite all your friends and neighbors aboard your sailboat. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of a monohull versus a multihull, whether it’s a catamaran or a trimaran.
The Monohull for Its Maneuverability
Choosing a monohull sailboat will be important for certain programs. Heading to the far north, breaking through ice, and sailing along wild coasts will be easier on an aluminum monohull, although some shipyards now offer aluminum catamarans. A monohull will also allow you to sail closer to the wind and move away from a coast more easily. The sensations while sailing are also more enjoyable for those who love the thrill of sailing.
Another advantage of the monohull is its versatility. Beaching with a dinghy in the smallest cove is no longer a problem. Arriving a bit late at a marina is also less of an issue; there will more easily be space for a monohull than for a catamaran or trimaran.
Budget-wise, it’s also simpler. From marina berths to maintenance and handling, everything is more affordable for your wallet.
The Catamaran for Its Living Space
The catamaran is increasingly popular among those planning to set sail. Indeed, the living space on these multihulls is unmatched. It is possible to have several cabins in each hull, with more privacy, multiple bathrooms, a saloon, and a galley on the same level as the cockpit. However, this gain in space is only true from 12 meters in length. Below that, the monohull is more interesting than the catamaran, due to its width and headroom. Catamarans under 9 meters are, however, perfect for coastal raiding.
Comfort while sailing is also much greater. Since the catamaran is much more stable than a monohull, sailing is more peaceful. However, size matters here as well. Under 12 meters, a catamaran can be uncomfortable in rough seas. But a 14-meter multihull is comfortable in all conditions. The platform must be high enough to stay sheltered from the waves. At the same time, a small catamaran, to remain comfortable at anchor, may have excessive windage. This means a significant wind catch, and therefore difficulties in maneuvering. In any case, this comfort while sailing comes at the expense of sensations. It should also be noted that bad weather is more difficult to handle when the wind picks up.
The catamaran does not allow you to sail as close to the wind as easily as a monohull. But some shipyards are now doing better in this regard. This is the case with shipyards like Catana, which have daggerboards.
The main disadvantage of a catamaran is the lack of space in some marinas and its maintenance cost (length, rigging, 2 engines, etc.).
Why Not a Trimaran for Cruising?
While monohulls and catamarans are the most common on the world’s seas, the trimaran is carving out its niche among speed enthusiasts. Indeed, the sensations under sail are the most intense. And in terms of safety, it is arguably the best, as exemplified by the Tricat 30.
However, the main drawback of this type of boat is its limited living space. Indeed, the living space is concentrated in the central hull, which is narrower than that of a monohull. This is not the case for the Neel 65, but it is very atypical. Check out our feature on the trimaran for cruising.
In summary, choosing between a multihull and a monohull is a very personal decision. Some swear by the monohull that heels, while others can’t imagine anything but a catamaran. And you, what do you think?
Discover our sailboat listings here