It’s large, spacious, stable… and a dream come true for all cruising enthusiasts. Yet, the catamaran sometimes divides boaters. Between those who swear it’s the ideal boat for family travel and those who call it a “false good idea,” the debate exists, and it’s legitimate, as you’ll see.
The catamaran market is booming. Sales are exploding, and charter companies are giving them more and more space. But there’s also the problem: between the difficulty of finding berths, soaring maintenance costs, and the feeling of sailing on a “floating apartment” rather than a sailboat, there are many arguments against catamarans. But then, why do thousands of boaters still dream of it?
Whether you wish to rent a catamaran or buy a used catamaranOr even nine if you can afford it; we’ve looked into it for you. Spoiler alert: the answer isn’t that simple.
Things to remember
- The catamaran is more voluminous and comfortable for the cruise, but it has some major disadvantages : limited berths, high maintenance costs, and less excitement at the helm.
- Less suitable for sailing alone : its size and width make it less maneuverable than a monohull.
- But… It allows access to inaccessible coves to monohulls thanks to its shallow draft, and the New models are increasingly efficient..
The disadvantages of catamarans: why some people regret it
1️⃣ Finding a berth in the harbor is a real challenge
With its width often exceeding 6 meters, the catamaran is persona non grata in many ports. Not out of a desire to exclude them, but simply due to a lack of space. Indeed, the spaces reserved for them are generally limited, more expensive, and often already taken when you arrive for a layover. Result: you need to anticipate months in advance or fall back on less convenient (and less secure) anchorages.
Example In the Mediterranean, some ports outright refuse catamarans during peak season. In Brittany, rates for multihulls can double compared to a monohull of the same length. And there aren’t many Breton ports that can accommodate several of them.
2️⃣ Maintenance costs that hurt the wallet
A catamaran is Two hulls, two engines, twice the surface area to maintain. THE boat maintenance costs are therefore more important. Result:
- Fairing : Count 20 to 30% more expensive than a monohull.
- Engines Two engines = twice the risk of failure, and twice the cost of overhauls.
- Insurance : THE boat insurance premiums are often higher due to the value and complexity of the boat.
Did you know that? Some shipyards charge up to 50% more for wintering a catamaran, simply because it takes up more space.
3️⃣ Less thrills, less fun at the helm
If you like the thrills, the pronounced lean and the sensation of glidingThe catamaran is likely to disappoint you. Excessively stableIt hardly heels, even in rough weather. For sailing purists, it’s a bit like driving an automatic car after a sports car : It lacks spice.
Furthermore, its width and its inertia make it less responsive than a monohull. Upwind sailing? Forget it. Lightning-fast acceleration? Almost impossible.
4️⃣ Sailing alone? Mission (almost) impossible
Even though some recent models are designed to be more manageablea catamaran remains a wide and heavy boat. Maneuver alone, to make a few circles in the water (especially for docking or picking up buoys) is much more complicated than on a monohull. It is often necessary rely on a crew for delicate operations.
Testimony : “I bought a 12-meter catamaran thinking I could sail it alone. The result: I always have to call a friend for maneuvers in the port.” — Marc, a yachtsman in the Mediterranean.
But then, why is the catamaran still so appealing?
1️⃣ Unparalleled comfort for cruising
It is the killer argument : a catamaran is the equivalent of an apartment on the water.
- Space Large cabins, spacious lounges, functional kitchens… Ideal for long trips with family or friends.
- Stability No rolling, even in rough seas. Perfect for those who suffer from seasickness (or who want to avoid arguments on board).
- Brightness : Thanks to its large bay windowsThe interior is often brighter than on a monohull.
2️⃣ Access to coves and shallow waters
With a draft often less than 1.50 mThe catamaran can venturing where monohulls cannot go secluded coves, lagoons, turquoise waters… Total freedom to anchor in idyllic locations.
Example : To The Antilles or Polynesia, catamarans are kings : they can access snorkeling spots or deserted beaches inaccessible to other boats.
3️ Maintenance costs… but mainly related to the engines
Yes, maintenance costs more. but not everywhereIn reality, The majority of the additional costs come from the engines.If you opt for a catamaran without an engine, for catamarans less than 8 meters for example (or with electric motors)the fees may sharply decrease.
Moreover, modern composite hulls require less maintenance than wooden or aluminum hulls.
4️⃣ The new catamarans: high-performance and fun
Gone are the days when catamarans were slow and unwieldy. THE new models (like the Lagoon 51, Outremer 55 or Sunreef 60) are designed for combining comfort and performance :
- Speed : Some exceed the 20 knots (compared to 10-12 for older models).
- Reactivity : Of the foils and optimized hulls allow them to gliding on the water like monohulls.
- Technology Autopilots, electric sails, energy management systems… The catamaran is becoming high-tech.
Example : sailing ships of the Outremer type are capable of sailing upwind almost as well as a monohull, while maintaining its comfort.
The verdict: catamaran, good idea or bad idea?
| Criteria | Catamaran ❌ | Catamaran ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | – | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Stability | – | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Access to creeks | – | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Sensations | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (new models) |
| Maneuverability alone | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ (with crew) |
| Maintenance cost | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ (without internal combustion engines) |
| Berths | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ (in the off-season) |
👉 A catamaran is perfect for you if…
✔ You prefer comfort and space for cruises with family or friends.
✔ You like anchor in secluded coves and explore shallow waters.
✔ You are ready to plan your stopovers and to pay a little more for maintenance.
✔ You opt for a recent and efficient model (foils, electric motors…).
❌ Move along if…
✖ You are looking for strong sensations and sporty navigation.
✖ You want sail alone without depending on a crew.
✖ You have a tight budget and don’t want to get bogged down with marina berths.
The editorial board
If you are still hesitating, Why not give it a try?
- Rent a catamaran for a week and see if the comfort compensates for the constraints.
- Talk to owners : forums (like Hisse et Oh Or Guru Catamaran) are full of feedback and experiences.
- Compare with a monohull : try both types of boats to feel the difference.
And you, are you more team catamaran or team monohull? Tell us in the comments!