best luxury sailing catamarans

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.

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2022 Boat of the Year: Best Luxury Cruiser

• By Cruising World Editors
• December 15, 2021

During and in the four days immediately following the US Sailboat show in Annapolis, Maryland, the  Cruising World  judges inspected and sailed on 27 boats vying for recognition. Learn more about the boats in our  2022 Boat of the Year  »

So what, exactly, constitutes a “luxury cruiser”? It’s certainly up for debate and open for interpretation. However, for the purposes of this discussion directly related to the 2022 Boat of the Year contest, let’s go down a checklist: price tag in the seven figures? Check. Over 60 feet? Check. Provisions for a “crew cabin” so the boat can accommodate a professional skipper and/or mate? Check. Not every one of the boats in this category will require the latter (the CNB 66 we tested was owned and operated by a very experienced cruising couple, who had voyaged extensively aboard her), but you get the idea. These are big, rangy, systems-rich, well-executed cruisers with the ability to take you anywhere on the planet (another criteria). State-of-the-art? Check. And a big challenge for the BOTY judges to test and analyze? Check, mate.

The Contest 67 CS was the first up on the docket, which the BOTY team examined and then sailed on a windy Chesapeake Bay afternoon on the concluding afternoon of 2022’s U.S. Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland. 

Judge Tim Murphy said: “The Contest comes from a Dutch boatyard, and while this is the most expensive boat in this year’s competition, they do really fine work, and this yacht certainly reflected that. It’s built to Lloyd’s specifications, so there’s a high level of inspection in the quality of construction, the systems and so on. It’s more on the boutique side of the equation as far as production boats are concerned. And man, she really sailed well.” Gerry Douglas said: “It was presented as a blue-water performance cruiser, and it certainly met those qualifications. Vacuum-infused construction with a foam core: pretty high-tech for a traditional-looking boat.” Frankly, the BOTY crew was blown away by the sophistication and presentation of the Contest, which was run by the young couple of pro sailors who are entrusted to her care and management. 

Next up was the Dufour 61 , the company’s flagship vessel, which is somewhat of a departure from previous models from the well-established French builder. Having tested many a Dufour in previous BOTY contests, Tim Murphy was well-acquainted with the brand. “Dufour has done well here over the years,” he said. “They generally have a few common denominators: They come in at a fair price point within their given category, and they usually have a strong mix of good accommodations and performance, though I’d say they typically lean more toward the performance end of the equation.” Now under new management, the company is taking a different tack: While Dufours used to share a common aesthetic, the 470 (the smaller of two Dufour yachts entered in the 2022 BOTY contest) and the 61 are clearly different craft. A new Dufour age is upon us—an interesting one.

Of course, Jeanneau is another French brand that has enjoyed entering many a winning vessel in previous BOTY contests. A collaboration between renowned French naval architect Philippe Briand and British interior designer and stylist Andrew Winch, the Jeanneau Yachts 60 is part of the company’s high end Yachts collection, which also includes a 51, 54 and 65. The profile is striking, with a long waterline, sleek coach roof, a cockpit arch that anchors the mainsheet and provides the foundation for an opening Bimini and enclosed cockpit dodger, and an integrated bowsprit from which to launch both the ground tackle and a code zero reacher or asymmetric kite. A dedicated dinghy garage houses a RIB, and there are multiple interior -layouts from which to choose. Like several recent Jeanneaus, the Yachts 60 incorporates the walk-around deck layout that is the signature feature of BOTY category winners over the last few years. 

But it was the final French entry in the Luxury class, making its US debut at the Annapolis show, that exceeded the efforts of all the others. The BOTY judges actually inspected a pair of CNB 66s , a semicustom yacht with countless available options. The dockside model was brand new; the one we sailed had been cruised by a husband and wife for two years (underscoring the company’s claim that it could indeed be handled by a savvy sailing couple). Judge Gerry Douglas found much to like: “The build quality was just impeccable. The layout [of the older CNB] was terrific; they didn’t try to cram things in but had three really nice cabins with en suite heads and a nice desk/office area, plus the chart table. Aesthetically, it’s a really pretty boat. The owner understood how to sail it well, and he had a system where he could handle it solo. He proved that you could operate a big, sophisticated boat alone.”

In fact, that demonstration played a big role when the time came to deliberate the pros and cons of this big-boat class. “The sail plan really worked for the (heavy) displacement of the boat,” said Murphy. “It was a real pleasure to sail. You know, when we started to see boats getting this big marketed to couples, maybe 10 years ago, we were all extremely skeptical about whether it would really work. You know, can they actually handle it when things get real? And it was lovely, actually, to spend time with the people who have been doing it for more than a year and have some real ocean miles under their belt at this point. And I’m a believer that they can. So that was good, I thought. It was a big, big boat, but it looked like it worked. And we sailed it today in very light air, and she moved well. So, I came away with a stronger impression after being aboard with the owners under sail.”

In such a competitive class, even in light winds, the sail trial swayed the votes in favor of the CNB 66, so much so that it was the runaway winner of the Best Luxury Cruiser category for 2022.

• More: Boat of the Year , Boat of the Year 2022 , dufour yachts , Jeanneau Yachts , Sailboats
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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

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.

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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.

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6 Best Performance Cruising Catamarans (Buyer’s Guide)

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Performance cruising catamarans are impressive-looking vessels that focus on speed above comfort. These fast boats are ideal for racing and long cruising vacations. But with the numerous brands and models on the market, how do you know which is the best one?  

The best high-speed performance cruising catamarans are the Outremer 4x, McConaghy MC50, Nautitech 44, Gunboat 62, Balance 526, and Marsaudon Composites ORC50. All these boats deliver outstanding speeds and are light in weight, relatively comfortable, and incredibly safe.  

This article will explore the brands and models that I believe have the best combination of performance and comfort . We’ll look at their speeds and what makes them cruise so fast. We’ll also examine the factors to consider when shopping for a performance cruising cat.  

Table of Contents

How Fast Are Performance Cruising Catamarans? 

Cruising catamarans are generally faster than monohulls of similar lengths. This means most well-built and well-balanced cats will arrive at their destination much sooner, and the cruise is much more comfortable. Performance cruising cats like the Nautitech include deep daggerboards and rudders, narrow waterline beams, hull chines, and big sail plans that allow for faster sailing than a standard cruising cat.

Outremer 4X

Outremer Catamarans are well-known for their high speeds. These exciting cats sport brilliant designs, narrow bows, and large rigs. Built in Southern France, the vessels are strong and long-lasting since their structures feature materials such as carbon, glass, and vinyl ester. 

The Outremer 4x is a stable and comfortable high-speeding cruising catamaran that performs ocean crossings and confronts any weather with remarkable ease. Named the European Boat of the Year in 2017, this 48-foot (14.6 m) bluewater cruiser sails faster than wind speed and attains maximum cruising speeds of 20 knots.

The 4x is an upgrade of the extremely popular Outremer 45, thus retaining Outremer’s core values of speed, safety, and comfort. It’s built for maximum performance and enjoyment, with the lightweight, carbon fiber structure allowing for additional speed under sail . 

Featuring comfort typical of much larger vessels, the Outremer 4X features 4 double cabins, hot water showers, a full kitchen, spacious storage, and excellent ventilation. There’s also an expansive deck, an unobstructed cockpit, and large trampoline areas. Most importantly, your safety is assured through the cat’s unique features including a robust structure, offshore design, stability, and unrivaled speed potential.

The 4x’s cutting-edge design makes it ideal for competitive racing or blue water cruising, and it does both without compromising your comfort, safety, or onboard livability. However, to sail at maximum speed, the boat must remain lightweight, requiring your interior to be fitted out quite minimally. The other downside is the high price tag; the Outremer 4X commands a price between $912,322 and $1,202,945 .

McConaghy MC52

The McConaghy MC52 is a performance luxury cruising cat reflective of McConaghy’s 50 years of experience in building high-tech composite projects. The luxurious boat features a flybridge, retracting centerboards, optimized hulls, and an open space bridgedeck combining the salon with the cockpit. You can also customize the boat to your specifications.

This hi-tech cat comes with sizeable sliding salon windows and frameless doors that provide fantastic views. Its wave-piercing bows can cut through waves, thus helping to increase performance by minimizing pitch resistance, while still retaining a smooth ride. Also, the saloon offers spacious dining space for up to 8 people, and the galley area is more like a penthouse.

The manufacturer’s background in building high-end racing yachts has resulted in an incredibly strong and lightweight vessel capable of reaching 22 knots (40.7 km/h or 25.29 mph). The main downside to this boat is the boom placement on the mast, which is much higher than other high-performance cats. This makes accessing the mainsail somewhat challenging. It also increases the MC50’s center of gravity and center of effort.

You can get the MC52 for about $1.6 million.

Nautitech 44

The Nautitech 44 easily blends comfort and fun to deliver an impressive sailing performance, whether you take short trips or long ocean crossings. The boat offers a good balance under sail, and it features helming stations on each hull. Plus, there’s an integrated hardtop bimini complete with sunroof opening. Slim hulls translate to higher speeds, with the vessel reaching up to 17 knots (31.4 km/h or 19.51 mph).

The well-laid-out interior boasts a functional design, ample storage space, plus all the equipment you require for ocean cruising, such as a fridge, watermaker, and solar. 

Nautitech 44’s twin helms give you the real sailing experience with a fantastic view of the sails and great visibility when maneuvering into port. However, you might not appreciate being stuck in the aft helm position without protection in lousy weather or during hot days.

Nevertheless, the boat’s responsiveness makes sailing more pleasurable. Plus, it’s affordable; the price is between $236,000 and $334,000.

Marsaudon Composites ORC50

Marsaudon Composites vessels are ideal for both racing and cruising. The sporty-looking ORC 50 comes with large inverted bows, an angular coachroof, a high freeboard, and a sturdy rotating carbon mast. In addition, the vessel is light which allows it to accelerate quickly, while the angular coachroof offers lots of space and excellent visibility. 

The ORC50 can attain 23+ knots (42.5+ km/h or 26.41+ mph) and is among the fastest high-performance livable multihulls. It’s capable of doing more than 350 miles (563.27 km) per day.   

The downside to the ORC50 is it’s a bit technical to sail, thus requiring a skilled sailor. Furthermore, its immense power and speed can be intimidating to less experienced sailors. Solely designed for speed, the ORC50’s interior is simple, less roomy, and somewhat spartan; hence the boat might not be all that comfy. Still, it’ll get you where you want to go pretty fast, and it’s an excellent value for money at approximately $787,751.25.

Gunboat 62 

The Gunboat 62 is a true high-speed catamaran capable of sailing at 20 knots (37 km/h or 23 mph) over true wind speeds and known to notch up speeds of 36+ knots (66.7+ km/h or 41.45 mph) on a surf. The initial 3 Gunboat 62 boats featured epoxy, E-glass, and carbon fiber construction, but the fourth vessel was all carbon, sported a taller rig and a more expansive sail area. 

These structural features made the Gunboat 62s extremely light, and they formed the original luxury high-performance cruising cats.

This multihull sailboat boasts a carbon mast, round hull sections for a minimized wetted surface area, high-aspect rudders, and retractable daggerboards. The steering station offers 360-degree visibility and sports overhead hatches that you can use to monitor the mainsail trim. The boat also contains 3 private cabins with queen berths, 2 spacious heads with showers, an aft cockpit, galley, and lounge.

On the downside, Gunboats are pricey cats; hence they’re also expensive to maintain. The Gunboat 62 isn’t that spacious either as it’s more focused on speed, but it’s extremely comfortable, plus there’s plenty of space for hanging out. You can buy this catamaran starting from $2 million .

Balance 526

Built with a combination of carbon fiber, E-glass, epoxy, closed-cell foam, and composite bulkheads, this boat is strong, light, and can withstand terrible weather. The retractable daggerboards allow for good upwind performance. All high load areas contain carbon fiber, while furniture and cabinets feature cored sandwich construction, producing the lightest yet most robust catamaran. 

A Balance 526 will reach speeds of up to 20knots without stressing the rig too much.

The boat is available in various layouts and comfortably accommodates 6 people. The spacious aft cockpit and saloon provide panoramic visibility. And since Balance 526 can handle the extra weight, you get performance plus all the creature comforts you desire.

Still, Balance 526’s pricing is on the higher end, beginning at $1,440,000 . Also, the slender hulls result in less space down below. Nevertheless, the boat lives up to its name, achieving the perfect balance between superb performance and comfort.

What Makes Performance Cruising Catamarans So Fast? 

Performance Cruising Catamarans Have Narrow Hulls 

Performance catamarans contain two small narrow hulls, which cause them to have less water resistance. Smaller hulls mean the vessels have much smaller bow waves to fight, allowing them to move extremely fast. In addition, the less hull area is underwater, the faster the boat is capable of moving since there’s less drag.

Having said that, it’s important to note that a narrow hull is more prone to burying its bows in rough seas. The wider the hull, the more buoyancy it offers, but only up to a given point. After which, the excessive width becomes unmanageable and performance suffers. The key lies in finding the right balance.

Performance Cruising Catamarans Have Considerable Length

The longer a cruising cat is, the faster it’ll move. While each vessel bears a maximum hull speed, in most cases, the lengthier the boat, the higher the speed it can reach. The length of the hull (length on the waterline) also has a significant impact on the speed performance. Thus, the cat attains maximum speeds when the wavelength is equal to the length on the waterline (hull speed).

Therefore, the longer the length of the hull, the better the performance of a high-speed cruising cat. You can also compare two cruising cats’ speeds based on this measure. 

Performance Cruising Catamarans Have Quality Builds

Modern cat manufacturers continue designing more innovative high-performance cruising cats that deliver a new blend of performance and cruising features. They achieve this by using advanced construction materials, better daggerboard designs, and creative weight allocation. They also keep a keener focus on onboard amenities. For instance, asymmetrical daggerboards placed midships in each hull can help achieve proper balance and hull trim.

The overall goal is to design cruising cats that offer high speeds, outstanding performance, and enough offshore comfort. 

Here’s an article if you are wondering what daggerboards and centerboards are and why they impact performance so much.

Performance Cruising Catamarans Are Light-weight

The lighter a cruising catamaran, the greater its performance. And some of the most popular high-performance catamarans find an optimal balance between performance and comfort. As a result, modern performance-based cruising cats have embraced the use of carbon composite construction for hulls, daggerboards, and rigging, instead of the somewhat heavier glass fiber materials.

A weighed-down cat produces less speed, which means excess immersion of the hulls renders the boat sluggish . The hull submersion also reduces the bridge deck clearance, promoting uncomfortable hull slamming.

You won’t find much difference in top speed between performance catamarans bearing similar lengths because they all have displacement hulls and mostly sail to hull speed with occasional surfing. This means that under skilled hands, these cats should exhibit roughly the same performance. A cruising cat’s performance is also highly dependent on the state of the sea, wind direction, and speed, amongst many other factors.

What To Consider When Choosing a Performance Cruising Catamaran

Speed is the number one consideration when choosing a high-speed cruising cat. Yet there are other factors just as important since they contribute to the overall cruising performance, including:

•  What you’ll use the vessel for and where. Are you planning on doing coastal cruising or serious offshore cruising? Consider the number of people that you’ll be sailing with and the activities you’ll engage in. This also helps determine the size catamaran you’ll need.  
• Comfort. While some racing enthusiasts might prefer spartan accommodation plans, most enjoy relative comfort on the high seas. In any case, modern high-speed cruising cats are designed to provide a certain level of creature comforts. And since most performance cats are custom-made, new boat owners may decide precisely which features to include in their cats. 
• Quality. To produce light boats, builders employ the use of fine resins, carbon, epoxies, foam cores, and fiberglass. They build using a combination of vacuum-bagged techniques, foam cores, foam composite bulkheads, and make furniture and cabinetry with cored sandwich construction . 
• Livability. One cannot underrate the appeal of sailing in a vessel with no heeling, not to mention the high privacy attained from separate living and sleeping areas. Panoramic views and exceptional deck space for lounging and entertaining are also essential in ensuring maximum cruising comfort. Fortunately, most high-speed cruising cats offer all these features and more.
• Equipment. Sailing upwind is a challenge for cruising cats since they tend to make lots of leeway. To make things easier, high-speed cruising cats come equipped with bigger rigs and either daggerboards or centerboards. However, this also means skilled sailors are required to operate them. 
• Cost. Catamarans are generally expensive, but a cat built with longer, leaner hulls and less costly materials can still give an outstanding performance. Such materials include foam cores, epoxy bulkheads, and epoxy resins. Furthermore, it’s not necessary to use only carbon to build a lightweight boat. 

Final Thoughts

Performance cruising catamarans are built using exotic, high-tech, lightweight materials to deliver an electrifying sailing experience. And as we’ve seen from the above list, these boats deliver performance plus much more. They’re not only speed cruisers, but they also provide a smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable cruising experience. 

So, whichever option you go for – from the luxurious Gunboat 62 to the much more affordable Nautitech 44 – you’re sure to get a boat that suits your needs. 

• Wikipedia: Spinnaker
• Wikipedia: High-Performance Sailing  
• Yachting World: Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 Review
• Aeroyacht: Catamaran Speed
• Cruiser’s Forum: Nautitech 44…
• Nautitech Catamarans: Nautitech
• Katamarans: Marsaudon Composites ORC50 (TS5) Review
• Outremer USA: New Outremer 4x Performance Catamaran
• Dutoit Yacht Design: Balance 526 Review
• Go Downsize: How Fast Do Catamarans Go?
• Catamaran Guru: The Cruising Catamaran Performance Debate
• The Boat App: The Fastest Cruising Catamarans of 2020
• Sail Magazine: Performance Cruising Cats Set New Standards in Sailing Speed
• Cruisers Forum: Fast Cruising Catamarans – How Fast?
• Lagoon – Inside: The Secrets of a Catamaran’s Performance
• Sail Magazine: 10 Great Cruising Cats
• Cruising World: 40 Best Sailing Catamarans and Trimarans, Cruising Catamarans…

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!

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15 BEST Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours in 2024

Looking for the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve been able to personally experience many of the catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. 

And without hesitation, I can say it’s a pretty incredible experience!

But with so many Riviera Maya catamaran tours to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones are worth your time and money.

MY TOP PICK

⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?

The best catamaran tour in Playa del Carmen is this Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar with over 1,800 5-star reviews!

In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen , including group catamaran tours and private catamaran charters.

So whether you’re looking for an incredible snorkeling experience, a party boat, a sunset sail, or something private and luxurious, I’ve got you covered!

Ready to find out which of these Playa del Carmen catamaran experiences is right for you? Let’s get started!

Top 3 Picks: Best Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours

Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar

✅ All Inclusive ✅ 1,800+ 5-Star reviews

Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling

✅ Puerto Aventuras ✅ Snorkeling at Inah Reef

El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience

✅ Starfish Snorkeling in Cozumel ✅ Beach Club + Water Activities

Best Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours

These are the best catamarans tours Playa del Carmen has to offer:

⚠️ Before we begin, it’s important to know that there is not a marina in Playa del Carmen . Catamarans will depart from these nearby towns:

• Puerto Aventuras
• Isla Mujeres

Keep in mind this will require a bit of extra travel time (30 min—1 hour)–but it’s definitely worth it as the water and snorkeling are much better in these areas!

Travelista Tip: Group catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen can often be crowded and have mixed reviews. I would highly recommend splurging on one of these private catamaran charters for an epic catamaran experience without the crowds!

1. Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 1,800 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 5-7 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
• 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →

If I had to choose the best place for a catamaran sail near Playa del Carmen, it would definitely be Isla Mujeres, a tiny island off the coast of Cancun.

The water near Isla Mujeres is honestly the brightest turquoise color I’ve seen in Riviera Maya and so unbelievably clear that it will leave you with a jaw dropping first impression!

This Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel Tour is my top pick for an Isla Mujeres catamaran tour, which will take you sailing around the island’s crystal clear waters.

Experience was great! Snorkeling was fun! A person does need to be a good swimmer but we saw some colorful fish, statues and coral. We had a good lunch and drinks on board. Walked around the island and got some souvenirs. Staff was great!! –Troy ( Read more REVIEWS )

While onboard, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of Playa Norte and the surrounding areas, while sipping drinks from the open bar and enjoying a gourmet lunch.

You’ll also stop for a bit of snorkeling before getting to enjoy free time on Isla Mujeres. Explore the island on foot and check out some of best things to do in Isla Mujeres like shopping or visiting Playa Norte.

And with roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Playa del Carmen included, this is one of the best Isla Mujeres tours from Playa del Carmen that is convenient and hassle-free!

What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel :

• Catamaran sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
• Free time to explore Isla Mujeres at leisure
• Gourmet lunch
• Open bar while onboard
• Snorkeling gear
• Life jacket
• Docking fee
• Professional crew
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen hotels

2. Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 475 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 4 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras

Located about half way between Playa del Carmen and Tulum and home to a large marina, Puerto Aventuras is another popular departure point for Playa del Carmen catamaran cruises. 

This half-day Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling tour departs from Puerto Aventuras and includes a snorkeling stop at Inah Reef.

This was one of my favorite experiences in Mexico so far! The tour guide was fun, and of course the water was amazing. I had fun snorkeling with a great group of people. Lunch was very good, and the margaritas were delicious! Fabulous! –Rachel ( Read more REVIEWS )

You’ll also get to enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, as well as a gourmet lunch and open bar onboard.

Plus, roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Playa del Carmen is included for added convenience.

I’ve been on a few Puerto Aventuras catamaran tours and they have always been a lot of fun!

What’s included in the Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkelin g :

• Catamaran sailing tour from Playa del Carmen
• Guided snorkeling at Inah Reef
• Snorkel equipment
• Paddle boards
• Beverages throughout the tour (alcoholic after water activities)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

3. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 190 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 5 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cozumel

This El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience combines a snorkeling excursion, catamaran cruise, and beach party—allowing you to experience multiple island highlights in one day.

Board a 65-foot catamaran and a cruise along the Cozumel coastline where you’ll enjoy reef snorkeling at the renowned Palancar reef before heading to El Cielo .

This was a great experience. We loved every minute of it. You were able to snorkel in beautiful waters and see many different kinds of fish. My family loved it. The crew were very energetic and helpful when asked questions. I would recommend this excursion for anyone that wants a beautiful view of the island. –Susan ( Read more REVIEWS )

A visit to El Cielo is one of the top things to do in Cozumel , where you’ll get to snorkel with giant starfish in unbelievably clear water.

After snorkeling, you’ll be to be treated to drinks, music, and dancing on board before heading to shore for an island-style beach party.

At the private beach club, you’ll enjoy burgers and drinks and there’s also a Cozumel aqua park with water floats, slides, and trampolines–perfect for all ages.

⛴ Note : This Cozumel catamaran tour starts departs from Cozumel so you’ll need to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. You can read my Cozumel day trip guide for more detailed info–it’s very easy!

What’s included in the El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience :

• Catamaran cruise around Cozumel on a 65 ft sailing catamaran
• Snorkeling at Palancar Reef
• Snorkeling at El Cielo
• Entrance fee to National Parks
• Certified snorkel and safety guide
• Snorkel and safety equipment
• Visit to a private beach club
• Angus cheeseburger
• Aqua park with water floats, slides, and trampolines for all ages
• Private beach cabanas, lounge chairs, and hammocks
• Alcoholic beverages
• Volleyball, kayak, and stand up paddleboards
• The best party-on-a boat during your return, with music and dancing!

4. Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 290 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 2 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Morelos

Ideal for couples, this Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in Riviera Maya is the perfect evening excursion.

On this 2-hour Playa del Carmen sunset catamaran sail, you’ll get enjoy an open bar and light snacks like fruit, cheese, and meat platters.

Wonderful experience. Friendly staff. The sunset was gorgeous. Food and drinks were good. Great experience and well worth the money. –Margaret ( Read more REVIEWS )

Being on the luxury Playa del Carmen catamaran at night with evening sunset hues will set the perfect scene for a romantic experience.

And roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Playa del Carmen is included so you can get there and back with ease.

What’s included in the Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya :

• Sunset catamaran cruise in Riviera Maya

5. Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 70 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 9 hours

If you’re looking for a party experience, this Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation catamaran cruise promises to provide a good time!

On this Playa del Carmen booze cruise from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, you’ll get to enjoy an open bar, live entertainment, games and contests, and a buffet lunch.

And two snorkeling stops are included–Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte –for a chance to see the underwater world up close.

Everything ran smoothly, from the shuttle pickup at our resort to getting on and off the boat at the different stops. I would recommend this to everyone, especially if you enjoy drinking, shopping, snorkeling, and cruising on a boat in beautiful blue water. We really enjoyed it and we would definitely book it again. –Ishan ( Read more REVIEWS )

You’ll also be given free time to explore Isla Mujeres, where you can shop, stroll, or park yourself at a beach club.

Plus, transportation is included from Playa del Carmen, so you can drink all you want and not have to worry about getting back to your hotel.

What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation :

• Catamaran cruise around Isla Mujeres
• 2 snorkeling stops–Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte
• Free time on Isla Mujeres
• Buffet lunch
• Open bar on board
• Tequila party
• Snorkeling equipment
• Round trip transportation from Playa del Carmen

6. Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 135 5-star reviews)

Departing from Puerto Aventuras, this half-day Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch takes you along the shores of Riviera Maya, offering mesmerizing views from the water.

With the 65-ft catamaran operating at no more than 50% capacity, you’ll have ample space to lounge on the deck or unwind in the comfortable nets.

Along the way, indulge in swimming and snorkeling sessions in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, immersing yourself in the vibrant marine world beneath the surface.

We had the absolute best time! The crew was amazing and really matched the vibe of the group! The food was delicious and fresh off the grill. We loved jumping off the boat and swimming around the reef. Highly recommend!!! –Ashlen ( Read more REVIEWS )

If you’re feeling adventurous, you even have the opportunity to try your hand at fishing. Or go down the water slide!

And back on board, you’ll be treated to a freshly grilled lunch such as BBQ steak, burgers, chicken, or fish, along with an open bar serving a wide variety of alcoholic drinks.

Plus, transportation from Playa del Carmen is included so it’s easy to get there and back.

What’s included in the Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch :

• 4-hour catamaran sailing tour from Puerto Aventuras
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Freshly grilled lunch
• Water and soft drinks

7. El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club

This El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club tour is one of the best Cozumel catamaran tours and includes snorkeling at the famous Palancar and Columbia reefs, as well as El Cielo beach.

Located on the southwestern tip of the island, El Cielo offers some of the best snorkeling near Playa del Carmen where you can snorkel with giant starfish in incredibly clear water.

The snorkeling was so awesome, we got to see sea turtles, stingrays, fish and sharks. We felt safe the whole time and the underwater photography provided by the crew was so amazing! We loved the guacamole and ceviche provided for snacks, and the drinks were hitting just right!! –BRITTANY ( Read more REVIEW S)

While onboard, you’ll also get to enjoy beers, margaritas, and drinks, as well as ceviche and guacamole.

Plus, you’ll end the catamaran excursion at a beach club in Cozumel with access to pools, lounge chairs, and amenities.

⛴ Note : This Cozumel catamaran tour departs from the marina in Cozumel. You’ll need to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel , followed by a quick taxi ride.

What’s included in the El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club :

• Guided catamaran snorkeling tour
• Palancar and Columbia reefs and El Cielo beach stops
• Guacamole, chips, fish ceviche
• Drinks aboard – beers and margaritas
• Bottled water and soft drinks
• Beach Club access with pools, lounge chairs, umbrellas, showers, dressing rooms
• Free wifi at beach club

8. Isla Contoy Eco Adventure

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 90 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 8 hours

Located just a few miles off the coast of Cancun, Isla Contoy is an uninhabited tropical island that will leave you with a jaw-dropping first impression!

Only allowing 200 visitors per day, Isla Contoy is a protected island that can only be visited by boat, so you’ll need to book a tour to get there.

This Isla Contoy Eco Adventure tour is a large catamaran that includes a visit to both Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy, as well as reef snorkeling along the way.

This was the most amazing day trip!! The whole day felt surreal and is an experience that we will never forget! The guides and all the people on the boat were amazing and so knowledgeable and made the whole experience brilliant! –Karine ( Read more REVIEWS )

Plus, breakfast, lunch, equipment, and roundtrip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included.

I’ve personally done this Isla Contoy tour and visiting the island is absolutely incredible–you won’t believe your eyes! 

What’s included in the Isla Contoy Eco Adventure :

• Catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy
• Light breakfast
• 2 snorkeling spots – Ixlache Reef and Contoy Island Beach
• Sterilized snorkeling gear
• Tour of the island with certified guide
• Domestic open bar (water, soft drinks, beer and cocktails)
• Lunch at Isla Contoy Contoy
• Free time in Isla Mujeres
• Roundtrip ground transportation from most hotels in Playa del Carmen

9. Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 125 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 3 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Punta Maroma

This Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya with Snorkeling & Beach Club sets sail from Punta Maroma, which is located about 30 minutes north of Playa del Carmen.

Punta Maroma is an absolutely stunning beach, and has consistently been voted as one of the best beaches in Riviera Maya.

You’ll get to enjoy Playa del Carmen catamaran snorkeling at the Great Mayan Reef, where you’ll see colorful coral reefs and marine life.

Great trip! Staff was amazing! Boat was great. They served beer, water and soda during the entire trip. Great service. –Cheri ( Read more REVIEWS )

Then relax at the Maroma Beach Club back on shore, which includes a savory lunch, drinks, and beers.

And convenient hotel pickup and drop off from Playa del Carmen hotels is also included. 

What’s included in the Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club :

• Guided snorkel adventure and catamaran cruise
• Live tour commentary provided in English and Spanish
• Water, soft drinks and beers (beer will be served after snorkeling activity)
• Free access to Maroma Beach when activity ends
• Roundtrip transportation from most Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya hotels

10. Privilege Experience Isla Mujeres Tour

• ⭐️ RATING : 4 out of 5 Stars (with more than 220 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 7 hours

This Privilege Experience Isla Mujeres tour is smaller group experience (25 passenger max), which includes a sail on a catamaran from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres.

While onboard, you’ll get to enjoy a premium open bar, a welcome cocktail, and snacks. And you’ll stop for a bit of snorkeling before docking at a private beach club in Isla Mujeres for a buffet lunch.

Grace and an amazing crew made this a trip to remember. Great drinks, lunch and a fun shopping experience. I would definitely recommend this to anyone considering Isla Mujeres. –TOBY ( Read more REVIEWS )

You’ll also have some free time in Isla Mujeres for shopping or exploring the island on foot.

And since hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen is also included, you won’t have to worry about taking buses, taxis, and ferries if you were to go on an Isla Mujeres day trip on your own.

What’s included in the Privilege Experience Isla Mujeres Tour :

• Premium open bar
• Buffet lunch at a private VIP Beach Club (Zama or IXI)
• Dry snacks on board and welcome cocktail
• Round-trip transportation from hotels in Playa del Carmen

Best Private Playa del Carmen Catamaran Charters

These are the best private catamaran charters Playa del Carmen has to offer:

11. Private 38′ Catamaran Tour to Paamul Beach

• ⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 175 5-star reviews)
• 🛥  BOAT SIZE:  38′
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦  CAPACITY: 8

Departing from Puerto Aventuras, board this Private 38 ft Catamaran Tour to Paamul Beach for a private experience without the crowds. 

With this 4-hour catamaran sailing Playa del Carmen excursion, you can choose a morning or afternoon departure and completely customize your itinerary.

I cannot say enough good things about this trip!!! The crew anticipated literally every single need. They were so kind and personable. The food was the best thing we’ve eaten our entire week long trip! The catamaran was so perfect and Mexico scenery delivered! If you’re debating, just do it!!! –TripAdvisor Reviewer ( Read more REVIEWS )

The private Playa del Carmen catamaran rental is perfect for families or larger groups and includes a seafood lunch, open bar, and snorkeling for up to 8 people.

The most popular destination is Paamul Bay, which is a great place to anchor and enjoy some snorkeling before heading back to the marina.

What’s included in the Private 38′ Catamaran Tour to Paamul Beach :

• 4-hour private catamaran charter from Puerto Aventuras
• Open Bar w/ unlimited drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
• Snorkel gear and life jackets
• Restroom on board
• Private captain and crew

12. 5-Hour Private 38′ Luxury Catamaran 2-Stop Tour

• ⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 90 5-star reviews)
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦  CAPACITY: 15

Embark on an exclusive and luxurious adventure on this 5-Hour Private 38′ Luxury Catamaran 2-Stop Tour .

This half-day tour offers the ultimate Playa del Carmen private tour experience , complete with an open bar and impeccable service.

Step aboard your own private catamaran, where a dedicated crew awaits to cater to your every need.

We traveled with 5 children and the crew went out of their way to make sure every accommodation was made for us. The whole experience was a definite highlight of our vacation and we can’t thank them enough for helping make that a reality. –Chad ( Read more REVIEWS )

As you set sail, you’ll be whisked away to the beautiful In-Ha Reef, where you can snorkel amidst sea turtles and tropical fish.

While you explore the vibrant underwater world, the attentive crew will be preparing snacks, refreshing cocktails, and fresh ceviche for you to enjoy.

You’ll also have the option to fish or swim at your leisure at La Bacona. If you happen to catch a fish, simply request the crew to expertly grill and cook it for you!

What’s included in the 5-Hour Private 38′ Luxury Catamaran 2-Stop Tour :

• 5-hour private catamaran charter on a 38′ catamaran
• Snorkeling at In-Ha Reef
• Open bar with unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

13. Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran in Cozumel

• ⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 350 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 6 hours
• 🛥  BOAT SIZE:  39′
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦  CAPACITY: 15 people

This Lagoon 39 ft Private Catamaran in Cozumel for up to 15 people is ideal for groups of families or friends.

The 6-hour private charter includes a professional captain and crew where you can design your own sailing itinerary to the prime spots in Cozumel. 

Our experience was fabulous thanks to an incredibly attentive crew and captain. The food and drink was excellent and plentiful…. Highly recommend for large group or family! –Craig ( Read more REVIEWS )

Open bar, lunch, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and floating mats are included.

Enjoy the crystal clear waters around Cozumel without the crowds while the dedicated captain and crew take care of your every need!

What’s included in the Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran in Cozumel :

• 6-hour private charter around Cozumel on a 39′ catamaran
• Paddle board

14. Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar

• 🕘 DURATION : 4-7 hours
• 🛥  BOAT SIZE:  32′
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦  CAPACITY: 9

Set sail on a half-day or full-day completely customizable private catamaran sail to Isla Mujeres and Playa Norte.

This 32-ft private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour from Cancun holds up to 9 people and comes with a full crew and open bar. 

Simply WOW! This was an amazing experience, it felt like a dream. Everything about it was perfect. They made this a very, very enjoyable catamaran ride to Isla Mujeres for me and my boyfriend. Book it, you won’t regret it! –Brissa ( Read more REVIEWS )

With a customizable itinerary, you can choose to sail around the bay or head to secluded beaches with the option to snorkel along the way.

Unlimited alcoholic beverages are included and transportation from Playa del Carmen can be quoted for an additional cost.

What’s included in the Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar :

• 4-hour or 7-hour private catamaran charter to Isla Mujeres from Cancun
• Unlimited drinks (open bar)
• Captain/guide
• Hotel pickup (extra charge)

15. Da Vinci 34ft Private Catamaran Rental

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.9 out of 5 Stars
• 🛥  BOAT SIZE:  34′
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦  CAPACITY: 10
• 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Submit booking inquiry here →

Departing from Puerto Aventuras, the Da Vinci 34ft Private Catamaran Rental is perfect for small groups looking for an intimate sailing experience.

This catamaran can hold up to 10 people and includes private sailing, snorkeling, a chef, and an open bar.

Plus, you’ll have a dedicated hostess, crew, and mates to make sure your drinks are refreshed at all times.

This company is absolutely fantastic!! They are attentive, easy to work with and make it a priority to ensure you have an amazing time from booking to coordination and day of. It was a great add to a group trip and overall wonderful experience!! –Jennifer

I personally went on the Da Vinci for a luxury sunset sailing experience in Riviera Maya and it was unforgettable!

It was a Playa del Carmen catamaran dinner experience under the starts and I was so impressed with the service, amenities, and attention to detail. This company truly goes above and beyond to create memorable experiences!

If you fill out this booking form , they’ll know I sent you and will take extra special care of you!

What’s included in the Da Vinci 34ft Private Catamaran Rental :

• 4-hour private catamaran charter on a 34ft catamaran
• Hostess, mates, and crew
• Snorkeling and snorkeling equipment
• Round-trip transportation (added cost)

More About Playa del Carmen Catamarans

Here are some of the basics on catamarans in Playa del Carmen:

What is a catamaran?

A catamaran is a large boat with two hulls of equal size that are connected by a bridge deck. 

The two-hulled design enhances stability and allows the catamaran to be better balanced in the water and when sailing. It also allows for more deck space than traditional yacht rentals .

As catamarans can venture into shallower waters, they have become very popular in Mexico and the Caribbean and are commonly used for Playa del Carmen sailing and snorkeling or scuba diving tours. 

What can you do on a catamaran?

Catamaran tours from Playa del Carmen are typically a boat tour that will take you sailing around the bright turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean. 

Each catamaran experience is different but they most commonly will include:

• Catamaran sail
• Paddle boarding
• Dancing and/or DJ
• Some food and beverage

Why go on a Playa del Carmen catamaran sail?

Going on a catamaran from Playa del Carmen is one of the most unique things to do in the Riviera Maya and is one of the best ways to see and experience the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. 

It’s a fun and totally unforgettable experience if you love the ocean and being on a boat.

Who are catamarans not suited for?

If you tend to suffer from motion or sea sickness, then catamarans are probably not for you.

I know some people that have had luck using these sea sickness bracelets but if you’re not comfortable being on a boat, then it probably won’t be fun for you. 

Where do the Playa del Carmen catamarans leave from?

Catamarans do not leave directly from Playa del Carmen , as Playa del Carmen does not have a marina.

Depending on which catamaran experience you choose, you’ll need to go to the marina in nearby destinations such as Puerto Aventuras, Cozumel, Cancun, or Isla Mujeres.

How much do Playa del Carmen catamarans cost?

There are catamaran tours available for every budget.  You can expect to pay around $60-$150 USD per person for a group catamaran tour.  

On the other hand, Playa del Carmen private catamaran charters can cost anywhere from $900-$2,500 USD depending on the size of the boat and duration.

Keep in mind you’ll also need to factor ground transportation costs into the total cost of the catamaran experience. 

Catamarans don’t leave directly from Playa del Carmen so you’ll still need to pay for a taxi or transfer to get to the marina where the boat is leaving from. 

Transportation is included in some of the Playa del Carmen excursions or can be added for an additional fee so be sure to check for this when booking your catamaran experience. 

How long do catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen last?

You can expect most catamaran tours to last around 4-6 hours.  When you factor transportation time on top of that, it will likely be a full day experience. 

More About Private Playa del Carmen Catamaran Charters

If you have a larger group or want a more exclusive experience, then definitely consider booking a private catamaran Playa del Carmen rental.  

Why book a private catamaran?

With a private catamaran rental, you’ll be able to completely customize the experience by choosing your desired locations and the amount of time spent at each stop.  

Plus, on private Playa del Carmen boat rentals, you can choose the food and beverage menu and even select all of your favorite food, drinks, and alcohol.  Not to mention, tee up your favorite music and party tunes.

And best of all, the staff and service will be completely dedicated to your group alone so no waiting for drinks or attention.  Sounds pretty great right?!

Who should book a private catamaran?

Private catamarans are the absolute best option for large or multi-generational families, groups of friends, and bachelor and bachelorette parties in Mexico . 

How much do private catamarans cost?

Playa del Carmen private catamaran rentals can cost anywhere from $900-$2,500 USD depending on the size of the boat and duration.

Yes, private catamaran rentals are much more expensive than group tours.  But consider this–you have a group of 15 friends and it might only come out to around $100 USD per person, which is around the same price as the group tours. 

And trust me, a private catamaran rental in Playa del Carmen is just so worth it! No dealing with obnoxious, annoying, or over intoxicated strangers ruining your catamaran experience.

What to Bring on a Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tour

Here are some of the Mexico travel essentials I would recommend bringing on a catamaran tour:

• Swimsuit: You will more than likely be getting in the water so you’ll want to wear a swimsuit and coverup. 
• Sunglasses : Don’t forget sunglasses to wear on the catamaran–it will likely be very bright and sunny! 
• Beach towel: Bring a beach towel to dry off after you get out of the water. These microfiber beach towels are great options because they are super light weight and dry quickly between the multiple stops.
• Biodegradable sunscreen: Any time you are going to be swimming in the ocean, it is so important to bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect and preserve the coral reefs. You can pick up my favorite brand on Amazon here .
• Snorkel set: If you’re concerned about comfort or cleanliness, I would recommend bringing your own snorkel set instead of using the one provided on the tour. I’ve been on snorkeling tours where my snorkel mask didn’t fit well and it totally ruined the experience so now I always bring my own.  
• GoPro or waterproof camera: I would highly recommend bringing a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture your snorkeling and catamaran experience. I always bring my GoPro and am constantly amazed by the picture quality.
• Change of clothes: You’ll also want to bring a change of clothes so you can change out of your wet swimsuit before the ride back to your hotel or resort.

Tips for Playa del Carmen Catamarans

Follow these tips to make the most of your Playa del Carmen catamaran experience:

• Book in advance: I would highly recommend booking online in advance to reserve your spot as Playa del Carmen boat tours can fill up quickly. Most tour companies like Viator offer flexible booking options and allow you to cancel without penalty up to 24 hours before the booking date.
• Go private if you can: If you have a larger group or are willing to pay more for an exclusive experience, then definitely consider booking a private catamaran tour. The experience will be much more personalized and you won’t have to worry about obnoxious tour-goers ruining your experience. 
• Bring your own snorkel set: If you plan to snorkel, I would recommend bringing your own snorkel set to ensure the best comfort and cleanliness. 
• Wear biodegradable sunscreen: As I mentioned, don’t forget to bring biodegradable sunscreen . It’s absolutely essential if you need sun protection.
• Take lots of pictures: A catamaran is truly a bucket list experience you won’t want to forget! If you don’t have a GoPro or waterproof camera, bring a waterproof phone pouch to protect your phone and still take lots of pictures around the water.  

Playa del Carmen Catamaran: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about catamaran excursions in Playa del Carmen:

The best catamaran cruises in Playa del Carmen are: – Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar – Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling – El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience

Yes, you can absolutely rent a private catamaran in Playa del Carmen for total exclusivity, a private crew, and the ability to customize your entire experience.

Yes, most catamaran sails in Riviera Maya include snorkeling stops and provide snorkel gear.

The best places near Playa del Carmen for a catamaran sail are Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, as these locations have the clearest turquoise water.

Many catamaran sails in Riviera Maya include transportation with hotel pickup for an additional cost.

Conclusion: Playa del Carmen Catamaran Guide

So, what do you think–are you ready to set sail on a catamaran excursion from Playa del Carmen?!

I hope this catamaran guide was helpful if you’re considering a catamaran tour during your vacation in Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya.  

There are many different options to choose from whether you’re looking for a snorkeling adventure, party cruise, or sunset sail.

My top pick for the best catamaran trip in Riviera Maya is this Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar . It has over 1,800 positive reviews and includes hotel pickup!

And if you want to ditch the crowds, then definitely consider booking a private catamaran charter to have your own private crew and for the freedom to customize your entire experience including the itinerary, food, drinks, and music.

No matter which experience you choose, a catamaran sail from Playa del Carmen is is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss!

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

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• Meet the Chefs Swapping Michelin-Starred Kitchens for Superyacht Galleys

“I get to travel the world and cook with the best produce. Isn’t that the dream?” 

Chrissie mcclatchie, chrissie mcclatchie's most recent stories.

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When Neil Snowball handed in his notice at Gordon Ramsay’s Pétrus in early 2016, he was giving up a coveted head chef role at the Michelin -starred restaurant in London’s exclusive Belgravia neighborhood.

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Snowball’s path was uncharted territory; yachting has long been a niche in the restaurant industry. “There’s some stigma that yacht chefs aren’t real chefs, so the crossover isn’t easy,” he tells Robb Report.

As with Snowball, money is the primary motivation, explains Mymuybueno founder Justine Murphy. The average head chef on a yacht has the potential to earn a tax-free monthly salary of between $8,000 to $13,000 per month. The premium for Michelin experience can see an extra $2,000 to $4,000 added to that. 

“These chefs largely want to come and earn the money that the luxury industry will provide them for a year or two and then return to land to work towards their own restaurant,” Murphy, who herself spent six years as a private chef on yachts, explains. 

Before they even step onboard, however, there’s an audience of yacht owners eagerly awaiting them.

“If you are going to have your own private chef, the preference is for someone with experience in Michelin establishments because of what they can bring to the table, such as modern trends or even the very dishes from the restaurant the owner loves,” Murphy says.

Lenz says if he’d known how easy it was to make such a salary on yachts with his experience, he would have made the switch a decade earlier. But it’s more than just money — and a two-months-on, two-months-off job rotation — that keeps him on the water.

“I get to travel and to see the world and cook with the best produce,” Lenz says. “Isn’t that the dream?” 

The photos from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and St. Barths interspersed with pretty plated dishes and daily banter with crew offer Lenz’s 180,000-plus followers on Instagram ( @billionaire_ch3f ) a glimpse into the yacht chef lifestyle. Lenz knows that social media accounts such as his inspire some of the most talented land-based chefs.

“People see that I’m shopping in local markets or cooking a fresh tuna that the crew reeled in,” he explains. “In a restaurant, that piece of tuna would already be five or six days old before we received it.”

While his job may look picture-perfect, Lenz says the swap from land to water required a total mindset shift. “You have to change how you cook,” he says. “You don’t have the manpower you need, nor the time, nor any of the pots and equipment you would use in a Michelin-starred restaurant.”

Murphy agrees that, for some chefs, the transition can be a shock to the system. “They are without the support system in a restaurant, where each chef is responsible for a different section. On a yacht you are doing it all on your own, or with one other if the vessel is over 60 meters [197 feet],” she explains. 

And not all of them are cut out for the industry, she adds.

“There are a lot of important attributes to have, especially humility,” says Murphy.  “I see it all too many times, chefs who come in and jump around and leave before they have even started, because it’s a whole lot harder than they imagined.”

It’s been four years since the business was founded and the duo is on the cusp of topping $5 million in revenue this year. “We’ve applied our restaurant work ethics and determination to the project and built it up with blood, sweat, and occasionally tears,” he says. “We are able to provide the products that guests on board are looking for, which in turn makes the galleys a happier place for the chefs to work—we love what we do.”

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43 of the best bluewater sailboat designs of all time

• January 5, 2022

How do you choose the right yacht for you? We highlight the very best bluewater sailboat designs for every type of cruising

Which yacht is the best for bluewater boating? This question generates even more debate among sailors than questions about what’s the coolest yacht , or the best for racing. Whereas racing designs are measured against each other, cruising sailors get very limited opportunities to experience different yachts in real oceangoing conditions, so what is the best bluewater sailboat?

Here, we bring you our top choices from decades of designs and launches. Over the years, the Yachting World team has sailed these boats, tested them or judged them for European Yacht of the Year awards, and we have sifted through the many to curate a selection that we believe should be on your wishlist.

Making the right choice may come down to how you foresee your yacht being used after it has crossed an ocean or completed a passage: will you be living at anchor or cruising along the coast? If so, your guiding requirements will be space, cabin size, ease of launching a tender and anchoring closer to shore, and whether it can comfortably accommodate non-expert-sailor guests.

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All of these considerations have generated the inexorable rise of the bluewater catamaran – monohulls can’t easily compete on these points. We have a full separate feature on the best bluewater multihulls of all time and here we mostly focus on monohulls. The only exceptions to that rule are two multihulls which made it into our best bluewater sailboats of 2022 list.

As so much of making the right choice is selecting the right boat for the venture in mind, we have separated out our edit into categories: best for comfort; for families; for performance; and for expedition or high latitudes sailing .

Best bluewater sailboats of 2022

The new flagship Allures 51.9, for example, is a no-nonsense adventure cruising design built and finished to a high standard. It retains Allures’ niche of using aluminium hulls with glassfibre decks and superstructures, which, the yard maintains, gives the optimum combination of least maintenance and less weight higher up. Priorities for this design were a full beam aft cabin and a spacious, long cockpit. Both are excellent, with the latter, at 6m long, offering formidable social, sailing and aft deck zones.

It likes some breeze to come to life on the wheel, but I appreciate that it’s designed to take up to five tonnes payload. And I like the ease with which you can change gears using the furling headsails and the positioning of the powerful Andersen winches inboard. The arch is standard and comes with a textile sprayhood or hard bimini.

Below decks you’ll find abundant headroom and natural light, a deep U-shape galley and cavernous stowage. For those who like the layout of the Amel 50 but would prefer aluminium or shoal draught, look no further.

Allures 51.9 price: €766,000

The Ovni 370 is another cunning new aluminum centreboard offering, a true deck saloon cruiser for two. The designers say the biggest challenge was to create a Category A ocean going yacht at this size with a lifting keel, hence the hull had to be very stable.

Enjoyable to helm, it has a practical, deep cockpit behind a large sprayhood, which can link to the bimini on the arch. Many of its most appealing features lie in the bright, light, contemporary, clever, voluminous interior, which has good stowage and tankage allocation. There’s also a practical navstation, a large workroom and a vast separate shower. I particularly like the convertible saloom, which can double as a large secure daybed or pilot berth.

Potentially the least expensive Category A lift keel boat available, the Ovni will get you dreaming of remote places again.

Ovni 370 price: €282,080

There’s no shortage of spirit in the Windelo 50. We gave this a sustainability award after it’s founders spent two years researching environmentally-friendly composite materials, developing an eco-composite of basalt fibre and recycled PET foam so it could build boats that halve the environmental impact of standard glassfibre yachts.

The Windelo 50 is an intriguing package – from the styling, modular interior and novel layout to the solar field on the roof and the standard electric propulsion, it is completely fresh.

Windelo 50 price: €795,000

Best bluewater sailboat of 2022 – Outremer 55

I would argue that this is the most successful new production yacht on the market. Well over 50 have already sold (an equipped model typically costs €1.6m) – and I can understand why. After all, were money no object, I had this design earmarked as the new yacht I would most likely choose for a world trip.

Indeed 55 number one Sanya, was fully equipped for a family’s world cruise, and left during our stay for the Grand Large Odyssey tour. Whereas we sailed Magic Kili, which was tricked up with performance options, including foam-cored deckheads and supports, carbon crossbeam and bulkheads, and synthetic rigging.

At rest, these are enticing space ships. Taking one out to sea is another matter though. These are speed machines with the size, scale and loads to be rightly weary of. Last month Nikki Henderson wrote a feature for us about how to manage a new breed of performance cruising cats just like this and how she coaches new owners. I could not think of wiser money spent for those who do not have ample multihull sailing experience.

Under sail, the most fun was obviously reserved for the reaching leg under asymmetric, where we clocked between 11-16 knots in 15-16 knots wind. But it was the stability and of those sustained low teen speeds which really hit home  – passagemaking where you really cover miles.

Key features include the swing helms, which give you views from outboard, over the coachroof or from a protected position in the cockpit through the coachroof windows, and the vast island in the galley, which is key to an open plan main living area. It helps provide cavernous stowage and acts as the heart of the entertaining space as it would in a modern home. As Danish judge Morten Brandt-Rasmussen comments: “Apart from being the TGV of ocean passages the boat offers the most spacious, open and best integration of the cockpit and salon areas in the market.”

Outremer has done a top job in packing in the creature comforts, stowage space and payload capacity, while keeping it light enough to eat miles. Although a lot to absorb and handle, the 55 offers a formidable blend of speed and luxury cruising.

Outremer 55 price: €1.35m

Best bluewater sailboats for comfort

This is the successor to the legendary Super Maramu, a ketch design that for several decades defined easy downwind handling and fostered a cult following for the French yard. Nearly a decade old, the Amel 55 is the bridge between those world-girdling stalwarts and Amel’s more recent and totally re-imagined sloop designs, the Amel 50 and 60.

The 55 boasts all the serious features Amel aficionados loved and valued: a skeg-hung rudder, solidly built hull, watertight bulkheads, solid guardrails and rampart bulwarks. And, most noticeable, the solid doghouse in which the helmsman sits in perfect shelter at the wheel.

This is a design to live on comfortably for long periods and the list of standard features just goes on and on: passarelle; proper sea berths with lee cloths; electric furling main and genoa; and a multitude of practical items that go right down to a dishwasher and crockery.

There’s no getting around the fact these designs do look rather dated now, and through the development of easier sail handling systems the ketch rig has fallen out of fashion, but the Amel is nothing short of a phenomenon, and if you’ve never even peeked on board one, you really have missed a treat.

Photo: Sander van der Borch

Contest 50CS

A centre cockpit cruiser with true longevity, the Contest 50CS was launched by Conyplex back in 2003 and is still being built by the family-owned Dutch company, now in updated and restyled form.

With a fully balanced rudder, large wheel and modern underwater sections, the Contest 50CS is a surprisingly good performer for a boat that has a dry weight of 17.5 tonnes. Many were fitted with in-mast furling, which clearly curtails that performance, but even without, this boat is set up for a small crew.

Electric winches and mainsheet traveller are all easy to reach from the helm. On our test of the Contest 50CS, we saw for ourselves how two people can gybe downwind under spinnaker without undue drama. Upwind, a 105% genoa is so easy to tack it flatters even the weediest crewmember.

Down below, the finish level of the joinery work is up there among the best and the interior is full of clever touches, again updated and modernised since the early models. Never the cheapest bluewater sailing yacht around, the Contest 50CS has remained in demand as a brokerage buy. She is a reassuringly sure-footed, easily handled, very well built yacht that for all those reasons has stood the test of time.

This is a yacht that would be well capable of helping you extend your cruising grounds, almost without realising it.

Read more about the Contest 50CS and the new Contest 49CS

Photo: Rick Tomlinson

Hallberg-Rassy 48 Mk II

For many, the Swedish Hallberg-Rassy yard makes the quintessential bluewater cruiser for couples. With their distinctive blue cove line, these designs are famous for their seakindly behaviour, solid-as-a-rock build and beautifully finished, traditional interiors.

To some eyes, Hallberg-Rassys aren’t quite cool enough, but it’s been company owner Magnus Rassy’s confidence in the formula and belief in incremental ‘step-by-step’ evolution that has been such an exceptional guarantor of reliable quality, reputation and resale value.

The centre cockpit Hallberg-Rassy 48 epitomises the concept of comfort at sea and, like all the Frers-designed Hallberg-Rassys since the 1990s, is surprisingly fleet upwind as well as steady downwind. The 48 is perfectly able to be handled by a couple (as we found a few years back in the Pacific), and could with no great effort crack out 200-mile days.

The Hallberg-Rassy 48 was launched nearly a decade ago, but the Mk II from 2014 is our pick, updated with a more modern profile, larger windows and hull portlights that flood the saloon and aft cabin with light. With a large chart table, secure linear galley, heaps of stowage and space for bluewater extras such as machinery and gear, this yacht pretty much ticks all the boxes.

Discovery 55

First launched in 2000, the Discovery 55 has stood the test of time. Designed by Ron Holland, it hit a sweet spot in size that appealed to couples and families with world girdling plans.

Elegantly styled and well balanced, the 55 is also a practical design, with a deep and secure cockpit, comfortable seating, a self-tacking jib, dedicated stowage for the liferaft , a decent sugar scoop transom that’s useful for swimming or dinghy access, and very comfortable accommodation below. In short, it is a design that has been well thought out by those who’ve been there, got the bruises, stubbed their toes and vowed to change things in the future if they ever got the chance.

Throughout the accommodation there are plenty of examples of good detailing, from the proliferation of handholds and grabrails, to deep sinks in the galley offering immediate stowage when under way and the stand up/sit down showers. Stowage is good, too, with plenty of sensibly sized lockers in easily accessible positions.

The Discovery 55 has practical ideas and nifty details aplenty. She’s not, and never was, a breakthrough in modern luxury cruising but she is pretty, comfortable to sail and live on, and well mannered.

Photo: Latitudes Picture Library

You can’t get much more Cornish than a Rustler. The hulls of this Stephen Jones design are hand-moulded and fitted out in Falmouth – and few are more ruggedly built than this traditional, up-for-anything offshore cruiser.

She boasts an encapsulated lead keel, eliminating keel bolts and creating a sump for generous fuel and water tankage, while a chunky skeg protects the rudder. She is designed for good directional stability and load carrying ability. These are all features that lend this yacht confidence as it shoulders aside the rough stuff.

Most of those built have had a cutter rig, a flexible arrangement that makes sense for long passages in all sea and weather conditions. Down below, the galley and saloon berths are comfortable and sensible for living in port and at sea, with joinery that Rustler’s builders are rightly proud of.

As modern yachts have got wider, higher and fatter, the Rustler 42 is an exception. This is an exceptionally well-mannered seagoing yacht in the traditional vein, with elegant lines and pleasing overhangs, yet also surprisingly powerful. And although now over 20 years old, timeless looks and qualities mean this design makes her look ever more like a perennial, a modern classic.

The definitive crossover size, the point at which a yacht can be handled by a couple but is just large enough to have a professional skipper and be chartered, sits at around the 60ft mark. At 58ft 8in, the Oyster 575 fitted perfectly into this growing market when launched in 2010. It went on to be one of the most popular models from the yard, and is only now being superseded by the newer Rob Humphreys-designed Oyster 565 (just launched this spring).

Built in various configurations with either a deep keel, shoal draught keel or centreboard with twin rudders, owners could trade off better performance against easy access to shallower coves and anchorages. The deep-bodied hull, also by Rob Humphreys, is known for its easy motion at sea.

Some of the Oyster 575’s best features include its hallmark coachroof windows style and centre cockpit – almost everyone will know at first glance this is an Oyster – and superb interior finish. If she has a flaw, it is arguably the high cockpit, but the flip side is the galley headroom and passageway berth to the large aft stateroom.

This design also has a host of practical features for long-distance cruising, such as high guardrails, dedicated liferaft stowage, a vast lazarette for swallowing sails, tender, fenders etc, and a penthouse engine room.

Privilege Serie 5

A true luxury catamaran which, fully fitted out, will top €1m, this deserves to be seen alongside the likes of the Oyster 575, Gunfleet 58 and Hallberg-Rassy 55. It boasts a large cockpit and living area, and a light and spacious saloon with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, masses of refrigeration and a big galley.

Standout features are finish quality and solid build in a yacht designed to take a high payload, a secure walkaround deck and all-round views from the helm station. The new Privilege 510 that will replace this launches in February 2020.

Gunfleet 43

It was with this Tony Castro design that Richard Matthews, founder of Oyster Yachts, launched a brand new rival brand in 2012, the smallest of a range stretching to the flagship Gunfleet 74. The combination of short overhangs and centre cockpit at this size do make the Gunfleet 43 look modern if a little boxy, but time and subsequent design trends have been kind to her lines, and the build quality is excellent. The saloon, galley and aft cabin space is exceptional on a yacht of this size.

Photo: David Harding

Conceived as a belt-and-braces cruiser, the Kraken 50 launched last year. Its unique points lie underwater in the guise of a full skeg-hung rudder and so-called ‘Zero Keel’, an encapsulated long keel with lead ballast.

Kraken Yachts is the brainchild of British businessman and highly experienced cruiser Dick Beaumont, who is adamant that safety should be foremost in cruising yacht design and build. “There is no such thing as ‘one yacht for all purposes’… You cannot have the best of all worlds, whatever the salesman tells you,” he says.

Read our full review of the Kraken 50 .

Wauquiez Centurion 57

Few yachts can claim to be both an exciting Med-style design and a serious and practical northern European offshore cruiser, but the Wauquiez Centurion 57 tries to blend both. She slightly misses if you judge solely by either criterion, but is pretty and practical enough to suit her purpose.

A very pleasant, well-considered yacht, she is impressively built and finished with a warm and comfortable interior. More versatile than radical, she could be used for sailing across the Atlantic in comfort and raced with equal enjoyment at Antigua Sailing Week .

A modern classic if ever there was one. A medium to heavy displacement yacht, stiff and easily capable of standing up to her canvas. Pretty, traditional lines and layout below.

Photo: Voyage of Swell

Well-proven US legacy design dating back to the mid-1960s that once conquered the Transpac Race . Still admired as pretty, with slight spoon bow and overhanging transom.

Capable medium displacement cruiser, ideal size and good accommodation for couples or family cruising, and much less costly than similar luxury brands.

Photo: Peter Szamer

Swedish-built aft cockpit cruiser, smaller than many here, but a well-built and finished, super-durable pocket ocean cruiser.

Tartan 3700

Designed as a performance cruiser there are nimbler alternatives now, but this is still an extremely pretty yacht.

Broker ’ s choice

Discovery 55 Brizo

This yacht has already circumnavigated the globe and is ‘prepared for her next adventure,’ says broker Berthon. Price: £535,000 + VAT

Oyster 575 Ayesha

‘Stunning, and perfectly equipped for bluewater cruising,’ says broker Ancasta International. Price: £845,000 (tax not paid)

Oyster 575 Pearls of Nautilus

Nearly new and with a high spec, this Oyster Brokerage yacht features American white oak joinery and white leather upholstery and has a shoal draught keel. Price: $1.49m

Best bluewater yachts for performance

The Frers-designed Swan 54 may not be the newest hull shape but heralded Swan’s latest generation of displacement bluewater cruisers when launched four years ago. With raked stem, deep V hull form, lower freeboard and slight curve to the topsides she has a more timeless aesthetic than many modern slab-sided high volume yachts, and with that a seakindly motion in waves. If you plan to cover many miles to weather, this is probably the yacht you want to be on.

Photo: Carlo Borlenghi

Besides Swan’s superlative build quality, the 54 brings many true bluewater features, including a dedicated sail locker. There’s also a cockpit locker that functions as a utility cabin, with potential to hold your generator and washing machine, or be a workshop space.

The sloping transom opens out to reveal a 2.5m bathing platform, and although the cabins are not huge there is copious stowage space. Down below the top-notch oak joinery is well thought through with deep fiddles, and there is a substantial nav station. But the Swan 54 wins for handling above all, with well laid-out sail controls that can be easily managed between a couple, while offering real sailing enjoyment to the helmsman.

Photo: Graham Snook

The Performance Cruiser winner at the 2019 European Yacht of the Year awards, the Arcona 435 is all about the sailing experience. She has genuine potential as a cruiser-racer, but her strengths are as an enjoyable cruiser rather than a full-blown liveaboard bluewater boat.

Build quality is excellent, there is the option of a carbon hull and deck, and elegant lines and a plumb bow give the Arcona 435 good looks as well as excellent performance in light airs. Besides slick sail handling systems, there are well thought-out features for cruising, such as ample built-in rope bins and an optional semi-closed stern with stowage and swim platform.

Outremer 51

If you want the space and stability of a cat but still prioritise sailing performance, Outremer has built a reputation on building catamarans with true bluewater characteristics that have cruised the planet for the past 30 years.

Lighter and slimmer-hulled than most cruising cats, the Outremer 51 is all about sailing at faster speeds, more easily. The lower volume hulls and higher bridgedeck make for a better motion in waves, while owners report that being able to maintain a decent pace even under reduced canvas makes for stress-free passages. Deep daggerboards also give good upwind performance.

With bucket seats and tiller steering options, the Outremer 51 rewards sailors who want to spend time steering, while they’re famously well set up for handling with one person on deck. The compromise comes with the interior space – even with a relatively minimalist style, there is less cabin space and stowage volume than on the bulkier cats, but the Outremer 51 still packs in plenty of practical features.

The Xc45 was the first cruising yacht X-Yachts ever built, and designed to give the same X-Yachts sailing experience for sailors who’d spent years racing 30/40-footer X- and IMX designs, but in a cruising package.

Launched over 10 years ago, the Xc45 has been revisited a few times to increase the stowage and modernise some of the styling, but the key features remain the same, including substantial tanks set low for a low centre of gravity, and X-Yachts’ trademark steel keel grid structure. She has fairly traditional styling and layout, matched with solid build quality.

A soft bilge and V-shaped hull gives a kindly motion in waves, and the cockpit is secure, if narrow by modern standards.

A three or four cabin catamaran that’s fleet of foot with high bridgedeck clearance for comfortable motion at sea. With tall daggerboards and carbon construction in some high load areas, Catana cats are light and quick to accelerate.

Sweden Yachts 45

An established bluewater design that also features in plenty of offshore races. Some examples are specced with carbon rig and retractable bowsprits. All have a self-tacking jib for ease. Expect sweeping areas of teak above decks and a traditionally wooded interior with hanging wet locker.

A vintage performer, first launched in 1981, the 51 was the first Frers-designed Swan and marked a new era of iconic cruiser-racers. Some 36 of the Swan 51 were built, many still actively racing and cruising nearly 40 years on. Classic lines and a split cockpit make this a boat for helming, not sunbathing.

Photo: Julien Girardot / EYOTY

The JPK 45 comes from a French racing stable, combining race-winning design heritage with cruising amenities. What you see is what you get – there are no superfluous headliners or floorboards, but there are plenty of ocean sailing details, like inboard winches for safe trimming. The JPK 45 also has a brilliantly designed cockpit with an optional doghouse creating all-weather shelter, twin wheels and superb clutch and rope bin arrangement.

Photo: Andreas Lindlahr

For sailors who don’t mind exchanging a few creature comforts for downwind planing performance, the Pogo 50 offers double-digit surfing speeds for exhilarating tradewind sailing. There’s an open transom, tiller steering and no backstay or runners. The Pogo 50 also has a swing keel, to nose into shallow anchorages.

Seawind 1600

Seawinds are relatively unknown in Europe, but these bluewater cats are very popular in Australia. As would be expected from a Reichel-Pugh design, this 52-footer combines striking good looks and high performance, with fine entry bows and comparatively low freeboard. Rudders are foam cored lifting designs in cassettes, which offer straightforward access in case of repairs, while daggerboards are housed under the deck.

Best bluewater sailboats for families

It’s unsurprising that, for many families, it’s a catamaran that meets their requirements best of increased space – both living space and separate cabins for privacy-seeking teenagers, additional crew or visiting family – as well as stable and predictable handling.

Photo: Nicholas Claris

Undoubtedly one of the biggest success stories has been the Lagoon 450, which, together with boats like the Fountaine Pajot 44, helped drive up the popularity of catamaran cruising by making it affordable and accessible. They have sold in huge numbers – over 1,000 Lagoon 450s have been built since its launch in 2010.

The VPLP-designed 450 was originally launched with a flybridge with a near central helming position and upper level lounging areas (450F). The later ‘sport top’ option (450S) offered a starboard helm station and lower boom (and hence lower centre of gravity for reduced pitching). The 450S also gained a hull chine to create additional volume above the waterline. The Lagoon features forward lounging and aft cockpit areas for additional outdoor living space.

Besides being a big hit among charter operators, Lagoons have proven themselves over thousands of bluewater miles – there were seven Lagoon 450s in last year’s ARC alone. In what remains a competitive sector of the market, Lagoon has recently launched a new 46, with a larger self-tacking jib and mast moved aft, and more lounging areas.

Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Fountaine Pajot Helia 44

The FP Helia 44 is lighter, lower volume, and has a lower freeboard than the Lagoon, weighing in at 10.8 tonnes unloaded (compared to 15 for the 450). The helm station is on a mezzanine level two steps up from the bridgedeck, with a bench seat behind. A later ‘Evolution’ version was designed for liveaboard cruisers, featuring beefed up dinghy davits and an improved saloon space.

Available in three or four cabin layouts, the Helia 44 was also popular with charter owners as well as families. The new 45 promises additional volume, and an optional hydraulically lowered ‘beach club’ swim platform.

Photo: Arnaud De Buyzer / graphikup.com

The French RM 1370 might be less well known than the big brand names, but offers something a little bit different for anyone who wants a relatively voluminous cruising yacht. Designed by Marc Lombard, and beautifully built from plywood/epoxy, the RM is stiff and responsive, and sails superbly.

The RM yachts have a more individual look – in part down to the painted finish, which encourages many owners to personalise their yachts, but also thanks to their distinctive lines with reverse sheer and dreadnought bow. The cockpit is well laid out with the primary winches inboard for a secure trimming position. The interior is light, airy and modern, although the open transom won’t appeal to everyone.

For those wanting a monohull, the Hanse 575 hits a similar sweet spot to the popular multis, maximising accommodation for a realistic price, yet with responsive performance.

The Hanse offers a vast amount of living space thanks to the ‘loft design’ concept of having all the living areas on a single level, which gives a real feeling of spaciousness with no raised saloon or steps to accommodation. The trade-off for such lofty head height is a substantial freeboard – it towers above the pontoon, while, below, a stepladder is provided to reach some hatches.

Galley options include drawer fridge-freezers, microwave and coffee machine, and the full size nav station can double up as an office or study space.

But while the Hanse 575 is a seriously large boat, its popularity is also down to the fact that it is genuinely able to be handled by a couple. It was innovative in its deck layout: with a self-tacking jib and mainsheet winches immediately to hand next to the helm, one person could both steer and trim.

Direct steering gives a feeling of control and some tangible sailing fun, while the waterline length makes for rapid passage times. In 2016 the German yard launched the newer Hanse 588 model, having already sold 175 of the 575s in just four years.

Photo: Bertel Kolthof

Jeanneau 54

Jeanneau leads the way among production builders for versatile all-rounder yachts that balance sail performance and handling, ergonomics, liveaboard functionality and good looks. The Jeanneau 54 , part of the range designed by Philippe Briand with interior by Andrew Winch, melds the best of the larger and smaller models and is available in a vast array of layout options from two cabins/two heads right up to five cabins and three heads.

We’ve tested the Jeanneau 54 in a gale and very light winds, and it acquitted itself handsomely in both extremes. The primary and mainsheet winches are to hand next to the wheel, and the cockpit is spacious, protected and child-friendly. An electric folding swim and sun deck makes for quick fun in the water.

Nautitech Open 46

This was the first Nautitech catamaran to be built under the ownership of Bavaria, designed with an open-plan bridgedeck and cockpit for free-flowing living space. But with good pace for eating up bluewater miles, and aft twin helms rather than a flybridge, the Nautitech Open 46 also appeals to monohull sailors who prefer a more direct sailing experience.

Made by Robertson and Caine, who produce catamarans under a dual identity as both Leopard and the Sunsail/Moorings charter cats, the Leopard 45 is set to be another big seller. Reflecting its charter DNA, the Leopard 45 is voluminous, with stepped hulls for reduced waterline, and a separate forward cockpit.

Built in South Africa, they are robustly tested off the Cape and constructed ruggedly enough to handle heavy weather sailing as well as the demands of chartering.

Photo: Olivier Blanchet

If space is king then three hulls might be even better than two. The Neel 51 is rare as a cruising trimaran with enough space for proper liveaboard sailing. The galley and saloon are in the large central hull, together with an owner’s cabin on one level for a unique sensation of living above the water. Guest or family cabins lie in the outer hulls for privacy and there is a cavernous full height engine room under the cabin sole.

Performance is notably higher than an equivalent cruising cat, particularly in light winds, with a single rudder giving a truly direct feel in the helm, although manoeuvring a 50ft trimaran may daunt many sailors.

Beneteau Oceanis 46.1

A brilliant new model from Beneteau, this Finot Conq design has a modern stepped hull, which offers exhilarating and confidence-inspiring handling in big breezes, and slippery performance in lighter winds.

The Beneteau Oceanis 46.1 was the standout performer at this year’s European Yacht of the Year awards, and, in replacing the popular Oceanis 45, looks set to be another bestseller. Interior space is well used with a double island berth in the forepeak. An additional inboard unit creates a secure galley area, but tank capacity is moderate for long periods aboard.

Beneteau Oceanis 473

A popular model that offers beam and height in a functional layout, although, as with many boats of this age (she was launched in 2002), the mainsheet is not within reach of the helmsman.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49

The Philippe Briand-designed Sun Odyssey range has a solid reputation as family production cruisers. Like the 473, the Sun Odyssey 49 was popular for charter so there are plenty of four-cabin models on the market.

Nautitech 441

The hull design dates back to 1995, but was relaunched in 2012. Though the saloon interior has dated, the 441 has solid practical features, such as a rainwater run-off collection gutter around the coachroof.

Atlantic 42

Chris White-designed cats feature a pilothouse and forward waist-high working cockpit with helm position, as well as an inside wheel at the nav station. The Atlantic 42 offers limited accommodation by modern cat standards but a very different sailing experience.

Best bluewater sailing yachts for expeditions

Bestevaer 56.

All of the yachts in our ‘expedition’ category are aluminium-hulled designs suitable for high latitude sailing, and all are exceptional yachts. But the Bestevaer 56 is a spectacular amount of boat to take on a true adventure. Each Bestevaer is a near-custom build with plenty of bespoke options for owners to customise the layout and where they fall on the scale of rugged off-grid adventurer to 4×4-style luxury fit out.

The Bestevaer range began when renowned naval architect Gerard Dijkstra chose to design his own personal yacht for liveaboard adventure cruising, a 53-footer. The concept drew plenty of interest from bluewater sailors wanting to make longer expeditions and Bestevaers are now available in a range of sizes, with the 56-footer proving a popular mid-range length.

The well-known Bestevaer 56 Tranquilo  (pictured above) has a deep, secure cockpit, voluminous tanks (700lt water and over 1,100lt fuel) and a lifting keel plus water ballast, with classically styled teak clad decks and pilot house. Other owners have opted for functional bare aluminium hull and deck, some choose a doghouse and others a pilothouse.

Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

The Boreal 52 also offers Land Rover-esque practicality, with utilitarian bare aluminium hulls and a distinctive double-level doghouse/coachroof arrangement for added protection in all weathers. The cockpit is clean and uncluttered, thanks to the mainsheet position on top of the doghouse, although for visibility in close manoeuvring the helmsman will want to step up onto the aft deck.

Twin daggerboards, a lifting centreboard and long skeg on which she can settle make this a true go-anywhere expedition yacht. The metres of chain required for adventurous anchoring is stowed in a special locker by the mast to keep the weight central. Down below has been thought through with equally practical touches, including plenty of bracing points and lighting that switches on to red light first to protect your night vision.

Photo: Morris Adant / Garcia Yachts

Garcia Exploration 45

The Garcia Exploration 45 comes with real experience behind her – she was created in association with Jimmy Cornell, based on his many hundreds of thousands of miles of bluewater cruising, to go anywhere from high latitudes to the tropics.

Arguably less of a looker than the Bestevaer, the Garcia Exploration 45 features a rounded aluminium hull, centreboard with deep skeg and twin daggerboards. The considerable anchor chain weight has again been brought aft, this time via a special conduit to a watertight locker in front of the centreboard.

This is a yacht designed to be lived on for extended periods with ample storage, and panoramic portlights to give a near 360° view of whichever extraordinary landscape you are exploring. Safety features include a watertight companionway door to keep extreme weather out and through-hull fittings placed above the waterline. When former Vendée Globe skipper Pete Goss went cruising , this was the boat he chose to do it in.

Photo: svnaima.com

A truly well-proven expedition design, some 1,500 Ovnis have been built and many sailed to some of the most far-flung corners of the world. (Jimmy Cornell sailed his Aventura some 30,000 miles, including two Drake Passage crossings, one in 50 knots of wind).

Futuna Exploration 54

Another aluminium design with a swinging centreboard and a solid enclosed pilothouse with protected cockpit area. There’s a chunky bowsprit and substantial transom arch to house all manner of electronics and power generation.

Previous boats have been spec’d for North West Passage crossings with additional heating and engine power, although there’s a carbon rig option for those that want a touch of the black stuff. The tanks are capacious, with 1,000lt capability for both fresh water and fuel.

If you enjoyed this….

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6 BEST Isla Mujeres Tours from Playa del Carmen in 2024

Are you looking for the best Isla Mujeres tours from Playa del Carmen? Look no further!

As a travel blogger who lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve visited Isla Mujeres many times to check out all the best activities on the island.

Isla Mujeres is incredibly beautiful but it can be quite a trek to get there from Playa del Carmen involving multiple transportation methods.

That’s why it’s easiest to book an all-inclusive Isla Mujeres tour from Playa del Carmen, where all your transportation, activities, and food are included for a stress-free trip.

The best Isla Mujeres tour from Playa del Carmen is the Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel Tour with Lunch, Open Bar, and Visit to Isla Mujeres with over 1,800 5-star reviews!

In this post, I’m sharing my top picks for the best tours to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen including catamaran sails, island adventures, and snorkeling excursions.

Read on to find out which of these best Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres tours is right for you!

Best Isla Mujeres Tours from Playa del Carmen

Book one of these best Isla Mujeres tours if you want to avoid the hassle of a day trip to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen and having to get there on your own:

1. Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel with Lunch, Open Bar, and Visit to Isla Mujeres

• RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 1,800 5-star reviews)
• TOUR LENGTH: 5-7 hours
• HOW TO BOOK: Check rates & availability here

Why book this tour?

My top recommendation when visiting Isla Mujeres is going on this Luxury Catamaran Sail because the water there is so unbelievably clear!

As one of the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen , this tour combines both catamaran sailing and free time on the island.

So you get time on the water but still get to visit Playa Norte (the most famous beach on the island) or explore the island on foot.

A must-do adventure! Friendly staff and fantastic service. Warm greetings when everyone came on board and making sure folks were comfortable. Attentive during sailing and also knowledgeable. We had a great time!

–Kommaly ( read more reviews )

Plus, snorkeling, lunch, and an open bar onboard are included so you can tour Isla Mujeres and have an all-inclusive island adventure.

And since hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen is also included, you won’t have to worry about taking buses, taxis, and ferries to get there on your own.

What’s included in the Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel Tour :

• Catamaran sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
• Free time to explore Isla Mujeres at leisure
• Gourmet lunch
• Open bar while onboard
• Snorkeling gear
• Life jacket
• Docking fee
• Professional crew
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen hotels

↳ Check rates and availability for the Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel Tour

Looking to ditch the crowds? Consider booking a private Isla Mujeres catamaran tour !

2. Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling

• RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 440 5-star reviews)
• TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours

This Beach Escape Combo Tour provides two island adventures in one with a visit to both Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres.

Just north of Cancun, Isla Contoy is a private island and nature sanctuary that only allows 200 visitors per day to set foot on its jaw-dropping tropical beach.

Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy snorkeling, as well as a stop in Isla Mujeres where you can explore the shops, walk around, or check out the famous Playa Norte beach.

Amazing island to visit! The tour was very well organized from pick up to drop off, it went very smoothly. Our guide JP was really cool and passionate which added value to the experience. 100% would do this again!

–Derin ( Read more reviews )

Plus, it includes breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, and roundtrip transportation so you don’t have to worry about any of the logistics.

I’ve personally done this Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres tour from Playa del Carmen and it is one of the most memorable Riviera Maya tours I’ve ever done!

Trust me, you’ll be blown away by the beauty of Isla Contoy!

What’s included in the Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour :

• Visit to Isla Contoy
• Snorkeling at the Parque Nacional Isla Contoy
• 1 hour free time in Isla Mujeres
• Professional guide
• Snorkel equipment and life jacket
• Water, soft drinks, and beer
• Round-trip air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen

↳ Check rates and availability for the Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour

3. Whale Shark Tour from Playa del Carmen

• RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 550 5-star reviews)
• AVAILABILITY : May through mid-September only

If you’re visiting during the months of May-mid September , consider this bucket-list Whale Shark experience of swimming and snorkeling with whale sharks off the coast of Isla Mujeres.

The whale sharks arrive to Isla Mujeres every year during the time to feed on the plankton that blooms in the shallow waters off shore.

An absolute MUST-DO! I will come back to Cancun JUST to do this tour!!! It was INCREDIBLE!! And the tour guide, captain, and first Mate were all top notch!!

–Alex ( READ more reviews )

And while swimming with sharks might seem intimidating, rest assured the whale sharks are gentle giants and you’ll be in the company of knowledgeable guides.

And after the thrill of the whale shark encounter, you’ll get to anchor at Playa Norte and enjoy a refreshing lunch of ceviche, guacamole, and drinks.

I’ve personally done this Isla Mujeres whale shark tour and it was one of the best Playa del Carmen snorkeling tours I’ve done–and not as scary as it sounds!

What’s included in the Whale Shark Tour from Playa del Carmen :

• Whale shark snorkeling near Isla Mujeres
• Anchor at Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte
• Continental breakfast
• Water and soft drinks
• Light lunch (ceviche and guacamole)

↳ Check rates and availability for the Whale Shark Tour from Playa del Carmen

4. Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres, Luxury Sailing

• RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 17 5-star reviews)
• TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours

This catamaran to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen offers the perfect chance to explore Isla Mujeres in a smaller group.

With group sizes capped at 15 participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your guide and plenty of space to soak up the sun onboard the luxurious catamaran.

Snorkeling on the Caribbean Sea is also included, so you can hop in the water for an up close view of coral reefs and Isla Mujeres’ underwater world.

Perfect day on the sea! We had an amazing time snorkeling, swimming and then on Isla Mujeres. The boat was sparkling clean, lunch was really good, and the whole crew was super attentive and fun. They made the trip worth it.

–Julianna ( Read more reviews )

Plus, there’s an onboard open bar, lunch, and free time is Isla Mujeres to top off the your Isla Mujeres trip from Playa del Carmen.

And with hotel pickup available from Playa del Carmen, you’ll get there and back in comfort and ease.

What’s included in the Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres, Luxury Sailing Tour :

• Catamaran sail to Isla Mujeres
• Free time on Isla Mujeres
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Port fee taxes
• Hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen ($5 USD per person)

↳ Check rates and availability for the Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres, Luxury Sailing Tour

5. Full Experience Isla Mujeres: Food aboard + Premium drinks + Snorkel + Free time

• RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 35 5-star reviews)
• TOUR LENGTH: 5-6 hours

This Full Experience Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen tour offers the perfect combination of activities, with sailing, snorkeling, and free time on Isla Mujeres, plus a delicious lunch and premium open bar to top it off.

After setting sail from Cancun, the tour will start with a 45-minute snorkeling stop at El Meco reef.

You’ll get to explore Isla Mujeres’ underwater world up close and even get to see the famous underwater fingers sculpture known as “The Blessings” (Las Bendiciones).

Overall good experience! We had a great tour! Everyone was very friendly. We liked that they were very punctual and that they gave us clear instructions.

–Kristal ( read more reviews )

After that, you’ll have around 2.5 hours of free time on Isla Mujeres to explore the island, swim at the beach, or check out one of the many fun things to do in Isla Mujeres .

Plus, with hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen included, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the luxury Isla Mujeres day tour experience.

What’s included in the Full Experience Isla Mujeres Tour :

• Snorkeling at El Meco reef
• 2.5 hours of free time on Isla Mujeres
• All fees and taxes
• Soft drinks
• Premium open bar
• Roundtrip transportation with hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen

↳ Check rates and availability for the Full Experience Isla Mujeres Tour

6. Sailing Experience to Isla Mujeres in a Catamaran with Open Bar

• RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars (with 1,100 5-star reviews)
• TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours

This Isla Mujeres catamaran tour from Playa del Carmen differs from the others in the fact that it includes a stop at a private beach club on Isla Mujeres.

Combining sailing, snorkeling, and relaxation time on the island, this Isla Mujeres boat tour from Playa del Carmen is the perfect way to explore Isla Mujeres in one day.

Amazing adventure! The crew and boat were fantastic. They kept the vibe upbeat and fun the entire time. Snorkeling was terrific with many fish and beautiful coral. The crew was very attentive and helpful in all aspects of the day.

–Robert ( read more reviews )

Plus, with the included open bar and buffet lunch, you can indulge in unlimited drinks while taking in the incredible views.

And with round-trip transport from hotels in Playa del Carmen, you’ll be able to enjoy your Isla Mujeres sailing experience with no hassles.

What’s included in the Sailing Experience to Isla Mujeres in a Catamaran with Open Bar :

• Catamaran from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres
• Free time at a private beach club on Isla Mujeres
• Unlimited drinks (open bar)
• Buffet lunch
• Round-trip transportation with hotel pickup from hotels in Playa del Carmen

↳ Check rates and availability for the Sailing Experience to Isla Mujeres in a Catamaran with Open Bar

Tips for Tours to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen

Follow these tips to make the most of your Isla Mujeres excursions from Playa del Carmen:

• Be prepared for a long day: It takes over an hour to drive from Playa del Carmen to Cancun, and then you’ll either board a boat there or take a ferry to Isla Mujeres. Be prepared for a long day of travel by car and boat – but it is so worth it!
• Watch out for the tourist traps: Be prepared for some tourist traps once you first get to the island. Near the ferry location, it can feel very touristy and there are no shortage of souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars (i.e. Señor Frog’s) trying to get your attention. But once you head further into town and away from the bustling center, Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island full of adventure, relaxation, and hidden gems.
• Don’t miss Playa Norte: Located on the northern tip of the island, Playa Norte (North Beach) is the best beach on Isla Mujeres, and has even been voted as one of the best beaches in the world by TripAdvisor. If your tour provides free time in Isla Mujeres, be sure to spend some time swimming or sunbathing at Playa Norte. It is within walking distance from the ferry terminal and marina.
• Bring cash for island purchases: Cash is the preferred method of payment on Isla Mujeres when dining at restaurants and shopping for souvenirs. Bring enough cash to cover your expenses for any island purchases. If you don’t have cash, some restaurants (but not all) may allow you to pay with a credit card for a 5% surcharge.
• Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes: Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most tours, so you’ll want to bring biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen for sun protection. You’ll also want to bring a quick-dry beach towel, and a dry change of clothes for the ride back to Playa del Carmen.
• Don’t forget money for tips: Be sure to bring some extra money to tip your tour guides, as it is customary to do so.

Isla Mujeres Tours: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tours to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen:

Is there a ferry to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen?

No, there is not a direct ferry to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen. You’ll need to drive from Playa del Carmen to Cancun (1 hour), and then take the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres (20 minutes).

Is Isla Mujeres better than Playa del Carmen?

When comparing Isla Mujeres vs Playa del Carmen , it really depends on what you’re looking for.

Isla Mujeres is better than Playa del Carmen if you’re looking for a quiet island escape. Isla Mujeres is much smaller and less developed than Playa del Carmen, so you can enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere with better beaches.

How much is a taxi from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres?

Isla Mujeres is an island so you cannot drive there directly. A taxi from Playa del Carmen to the Isla Mujeres ferry terminal in Cancun may cost around $1000 pesos (~$50 USD) each way.

Is Isla Mujeres cash only?

Cash is the preferred method of payment on Isla Mujeres. However, some restaurants, shops, and establishments may allow you to pay with a credit card for a 5% surcharge.

Conclusion: Best Isla Mujeres Tours from Playa del Carmen

I hope this guide has helped you with planning Isla Mujeres tours from Playa del Carmen!

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful escape and a great day trip from Playa del Carmen if you’re looking for a stunning island adventure.

But since getting there from Playa del Carmen can be a bit of a hassle, it’s easiest to book a tour with round-trip transportation included.

Catamaran tours from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres are my top recommendation for seeing the island because the bright turquoise waters are really so unforgettable!

My top pick for the best Isla Mujeres catamaran tour is the Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel Tour with lunch, open bar, and free time on Isla Mujeres.

And you’ll have round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen for a hassle free trip.

But no matter which Isla Mujeres tour from Playa del Carmen you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time exploring the island!

RELATED READING:

• How to Take An Isla Mujeres Day Trip from Playa del Carmen
• Isla Mujeres Playa Norte: What to Know + How to Get There
• Isla Contoy Tour Guide
• Best Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours
• Best Playa del Carmen Snorkeling Tours
• Best Playa del Carmen Private Tours
• Best Playa del Carmen Boat Tours