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Since 1981, Catamaran Cruisers  has been guided by a simple philosophy: houseboating should be an affordable pleasure, easy to buy, easy to enjoy and easy to maintain.  Remaining true to this core principle Catamaran Cruisers has continued to successfully navigate through many challenging conditions of the boat industry over the past 30 years.

Offering a full line of fiberglass catamaran hull houseboats ranging in size from the trailerable 8- by 31-foot Lil' Hobo up to the 14- by 58-foot Catamaran Cruiser along with a pontoon boat line from the 8- by 22-foot Scat Cat through the 12- by 30-foot Pontoon Beast that can seat up to 16 passengers.

To commemorate 30 years of houseboat history, Catamaran Cruisers has developed an anniversary package boat at a great price. The 12- by 39-foot AE includes everything necessary for a complete boat-including motor-for a special one-year price of $75,762. All Catamaran Cruiser floor plans feature full cabin width and all one level cabins without small stairs or cramped sleeping berths.

2011 Recap:

We continue to control cost and manufacturing all our components in house to be as efficient and cost effective to pass the value onto the customers. We have over 5,000 boats in the field that display our 800 number that continues to generate leads in all markets.

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Small Catamarans

10 Small Catamarans for Cruisers

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

Is a cruising catamaran your dream? Check out these 10 small but sturdy boats you might want to consider.

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

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

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

Charter vs Liveaboard Cruising

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

Compare that itinerary to the typical liveaboard cruiser. 

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

catamaran cruisers photos

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

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

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

Affordable Catamaran Market

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

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

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

Modest Cats for Cruisers

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

Prout 37 Snowgoose

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

catamaran cruisers photos

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

Lagoon 37 TPI

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

catamaran cruisers photos

PDQ 36 Capella

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

Seawind 1000

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

catamaran cruisers photos

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

Endeavour 36

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

catamaran cruisers photos

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

catamaran cruisers photos

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

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

catamaran cruisers photos

And check out our other courses and products

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Reader Interactions

January 31, 2021 at 5:58 pm

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

Carolyn Shearlock says

February 1, 2021 at 12:49 pm

I’ll see if we can perhaps add that.

Richard says

February 9, 2021 at 11:03 am

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

Drew Frye says

February 20, 2021 at 11:46 am

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

Florida ratings, according to US Sailing

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

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

February 21, 2021 at 7:59 am

Thanks! Good info.

September 10, 2023 at 5:55 am

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

Erin Michaud says

February 23, 2021 at 10:22 am

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

February 24, 2021 at 5:54 am

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

January 6, 2022 at 11:32 am

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

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

Bruce Bayne says

February 20, 2022 at 9:57 am

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

June 6, 2022 at 10:44 am

Rayma Church says

July 31, 2024 at 7:27 pm

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

August 1, 2024 at 12:26 pm

Great choice of boat for the Loop!

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10 Best Pocket Catamarans (Under 38 ft)

  • Post author By Rick
  • Post date September 11, 2020
  • 3 Comments on 10 Best Pocket Catamarans (Under 38 ft)

catamaran cruisers photos

Smaller cruising catamarans are an excellent entry level gateway into cruising catamarans and of late have become very popular. This is an effort to select some of the most well respected of these smaller catamarans. This was a difficult task, as many of these boats, designed and built some time ago, are still found in all the popular cruising grounds, and a list like this is subjective after all. All I can do is apologize in advance for leaving a boat off this list.

  • Prout Snowgoose 37

catamaran cruisers photos

The Snowgoose  (all iterations) was the first truly popular mass produced catamaran with more than 500 built. Known as safe, strong and capable of being sailed off shore, which some say is because of the position of their main mast, they make a perfect coastal cruiser or circumnavigator for an adventurous couple. This is a lot of boat for the money. These boats began their model run as a 35’ boat but as time went on Prout changed the mould by extending them to 37’. The Snowgoose can be found in every ocean on the planet.

The interior is simple and lightweight in order to maintain good sailing performance. A combination of classic woods and modern materials give the boat a spacious and open feeling that is hard to find on a boat this size.

Under sail, the Prout Snowgoose 37 is consistent, and it doesn’t need to be micromanaged, making it an ideal passagemaker. During passages,150 miles per day can be expected without pushing the boat. The Snowgoose 37, with its flexible cutter rig, balances easily and handles well under autopilot.

The Snowgoose is renowned for its rugged construction and sea kindliness as these boats were built to cross oceans, and not as additions to Caribbean charter fleets. Somewhere around 500 boats were built, and, although statements like this are impossible to confirm, its been said that nearly 100 have completed circumnavigations. True or not, Prouts have probably done more circumnavigations than any other catamaran of their era. The Prout designs have proven themselves time and again as tough, reliable cruisers and if a sailor wants a cat to sail around the world, there’s a good chance he’ll probably end up in a Snowgoose.

  • Gemini 105M

catamaran cruisers photos

The most popular American line of catamarans with over 1100 deliveries, this Gemini 105MC is one of the most affordable catamarans on the market. The Gemini’s performance is legendary yet they still manage to surprise unsuspecting newcomers.

These boats squeeze 3 cabins, a head and full Galley (in starboard hull) and a deck layout and rig which offers a stable, safe, and well-reasoned platform for whatever comes your way. And the ingenuity of lifting centerboards and kick-up rudders will have you sailing through less than 2′ of water, making this boat the ultimate Island hopper. All this and more at 33′ 6″ length and a 14′ beam that can dock in a standard slip or truck across the country.

The Gemini 105M has plenty of room, is an excellent value, with outstanding accommodations, and solid sailing performance.

  • The Lagoon 37 TPI

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The Lagoon 37 TPI catamaran was built by the famed boat yard Tillotson Pearson in Rhode Island. They were introduced in 1993 following the success of the Lagoon 42 in the US charter market and draws from a long lineage of great multihull designs and continues the collaboration of Jeanneau of France, and TPI (American). With the same designers and builders as the forerunner model and targeting the same market, these boats have achieved cult status among catamaran sailors. Their pointing ability, and comfort aboard are legendary.  These boats were designed with the much preferred straight propeller shafts instead of sail drives and were sold as 3 cabin 2 head laid out as an Owner’s Version.

A French design, built in the USA by TPI in Rhode Island, they have become a very sought-after catamaran. These boats are fast and comfortable both at sea and at anchor with ample storage room and comfortable accommodations.

catamaran cruisers photos

The PDQ 36 was a Canadian built catamaran offered in two arrangements. The LRC (Long Range Cruiser) is a legend among cruising catamarans and included 2 Yanmar diesel engines coupled to straight shafts. The PDQ 36 Capella, was built with pods for two Yamaha extended shaft outboards.

These are solid boats with excellent construction as the expert use of materials and construction techniques results in a strong boat yet keeps the hull weight low. With twin inboard diesels, she’s designed for coastal cruising. They aren’t seen for sale very often.

These are well-built and well-regarded catamarans, designed with a gracious entertaining area, and two luxurious staterooms complete with queen-size beds. At 36′ the boat is the ideal size for single-handing, as the twin engines contribute to excellent maneuverability in tight spaces while the diesel engine version offering considerable charging capability.

Two equal staterooms with plenty of storage throughout the boat. The head and shower stall are one piece for easy cleaning. The galley is located in the port hull, has dual sinks, a Force 10 oven with two burner range and refrigerator for easy access. The salon seats six for dining.

The cockpit is spacious with pilot and co-pilot seats and an aft bench seat. The engines are either inboard diesels or in pods and retract out of the water for no drag when under sail. 

catamaran cruisers photos

The Catalac 9M was a British built, 30 foot design, with a modest rig, high coach roof, large  cockpit and 5 berths in four sleeping areas which provided lots of sun bathing deck space, a shallow draft, and had reasonable performance. In a good blow (>20 knots of wind speed) 10 knots at 45 degress apparent can be expected from the Catalac 9M and in enough wind the boat will tack inside of 45 degrees. In strong quarterly winds speeds of 12-14 knots under sail has been documented with the outboard engine configuration in a lightly loaded boat. Remarkable performance from such a boxy design  given that it’s design priority was comfort rather than speed

The mast is cabin stepped in a tabernacle. These were designed be raised and lowered single handed. They were sold with a mainsail, working jib and a 170% Genoa. When the rig is set up correctly, they sail with a very balanced helm. Twin rudders contribute to their agility and later models (>1980) have matching skegs just forward of the rudders to increase windward ability. About 250 boats were built.

  • Endeavour 36

catamaran cruisers photos

EndeavourCat 36 cruising catamaran is an American designed and buit boat by Endeavour Catamaran Corporation of Clearwater, FL. The EndeavourCat 36 draws less than 3 feet and can go most places that others can’t. These boats are very easily docked with twin diesel engines. They were built with three staterooms with queen-size beds. There are identical staterooms aft in each hull with a bedside table, hanging locker and drawers. Each stateroom has a ceiling light, reading lights, large hatches, opening ports. The bright, airy salon can comfortably seat 6-8.

The Galley is located in the port hull and is large enough for two people to prepare a gourmet meal side by side. Designed to be sailed single-handed without ever leaving the cockpit, all lines lead to the cockpit, two two-speed winches make easy work of sail handling. Both main and jib are completely self-tacking.

  • Endeavour 30

catamaran cruisers photos

The Endeavour 30 was built by Endeavour Catamaran Corporation of Clearwater, FL and features spacious Salon, Massive Galley, Huge Head with separate two-person shower with a built-in seat. Twin Queen births with full hanging cedar lined closest and plentiful storage space.  The hull, deck, and structural bulkheads are manufactured of biaxial fiberglass with isophathalic vinylester resins and NidaCore (a polypropelene honeycomb) coring. Vacuum bagged construction was used to enhance stiffness, strength, and reduce weight. There is a full interior fiberglass grid used as the interior mold for strength and rigidity. The headliner is a full fiberglass molded piece. The hulls and decks are fastened both chemically and mechanically for strength. Twin fiberglass molded keels are foam filled and have integral sumps. The balanced rudders are constructed of high denisty foam/fiberglass.

These boats have a very unique layout merging the cabin with the cockpit with broad companionway doors. Tons of features packed into her 30 foot length. A lot of catamaran for the money.

  • Fountaine Pajot Mahe 36

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Fountaine Pajot Mahe 36 was based on an Olivier Flahault design and with a Joubert/Nivelt hull, The Mahe 36 is built for safe navigation with comfortable, bright living areas and a fully protected cockpit alongside the salon.

The Mahe 36 features an open-plan / sheltered cockpit and saloon and raised helm station.  Entering the main salon through the sliding cockpit door the well-appointed galley is to starboard and the Nav station and storage is to port. Down into the starboard hull is the master stateroom aft with a Queen berth with several opening ports, a hanging locker and shelf storage with vented doors.

Forward to starboard is the ample head with shower which is a single fiberglass unit very easy to keep clean. Down from the saloon to the port guest stateroom aft with a Queen berth with several opening ports , a hanging locker and shelf storage with vented doors. Forward to port is the ample head with shower which is a single fiberglass unit very easy to keep clean. The large windows forward, Port and Starboard in the saloon make for an airy, open feeling.

These boat offers great comfort both sailing and at anchor while at the same time offering excellent performance. The Mahé 36 allows you to move around freely onboard, enjoying comfort when navigating (at the helm, in the cockpit or down below) or while moored. Everything has been thought out so that you can move about on this 36 ft yacht without anything getting in the way.

catamaran cruisers photos

The Catalac 8M is a pocket cruising catamaran which has a solid reputation for quality, strength and durability. Many of the boats found in North America today, were sailed there from Great Britain. The Catalac 8M, although classified as a pocket cruiser was designed with blue water sailing in mind. Offered in two versions, twin diesels or a single outboatd engine. The twin inboard diesel models can easily motor almost 1000 kilometers without refueling. The 70 amps of charging and 70 gallons of stock water tanks in the Catalac 8M and 9M make even these smaller boats terrific coastal cruisers. The Outboard versions sail a bit quicker as the engine can be raised during sailing, reducing drag. Constructed with solid fiberglass hulls, these are quality boats which were built like battleships. Chuck Kanter calls them one of the catamaran brands that live on through the decades.

The Catalac 8M is masthead rigged with a relatively short, but thick mast. As with all boats in the Catalac production lineup, this contributes to a stable boat with a low center of effort. No Catalac has ever been known to fly a hull under any circumstances.

The mast is cabin stepped in a tabernacle. These can be raised and lowered single handed. The standing rigging is over sized to withstand the extra loading experienced by catamarans. They were sold with a mainsail, working jib and a 170% Genoa. When the rig is set up correctly, they sail with a very balanced helm. Twin rudders contribute to their agility and later models (>1980) have matching skegs just forward of the rudders to improve windward ability. 

Designed with a single full size berth forward, a large 8 foot long galley in the starboard hull, a quarter berth, nav station and head in the Port hull, these small catamarans pack a lot of features in a small package. Their cockpits are as large as a 38 – 40 foot catamaran. Most of these boats are in Europe but a fail number were either imported or sailed to North America.

  • Seawind 1000

catamaran cruisers photos

The Seawind 1000 is an Australian built 37′ catamaran. These Australian designed and built catamarans have won world wide acclaim and awards for their stability, spaciousness, luxury and performance.  The Seawind 1000’s blend of simplicity and sophistication is an example of what a modest cruising catamaran needs to serve the minimum needs of its crew, and what it should have to make sailors want to use and keep their beloved catamaran.

She has a well equipped galley with plenty of bench space and storage and the large open saloon. Featuring 2 cabins, 4 berths, large bathroom, and very nice galley. They feature a large double bed, additonal bunk and bathroom portside. On the starboard side, kitchen, additional bunk, desk and seperate cabin. The saloon features a large table that can convert to a huge daybed for lounging while under sail. Her large trampolines up front are perfect to laze around and for sun baking. The large open saloon with seating and table is fully open to the cockpit for plenty of space for the guests to move around.

The functional galley is loaded with fridge, a small oven and gas 2 burner stove top making meal preparation hassle free. She has a galley bench top w/ integral double sink and drain.

The Seawind 1000 is a solid, safe cruising catamaran that moves beautifully in the water and more than comfortable to live on.

  • Tags Buying Advice

Rick

Owner of a Catalac 8M and Catamaransite webmaster.

3 replies on “10 Best Pocket Catamarans (Under 38 ft)”

Thank you, Rick. My wife and I are planning on cruising the Med in a few years and the boats profiled give a good starting point for the “perfect” boat. ?

Excellent work…

Gerry Gray hear from Pointe Claire Yacht club looking to buy a super clean pocket cat on the east coast or in the carribean or central america….under 100k cad please.

Cheers Gerry

Hi Gerry: Best thing to do is sign up for our mailing list to be first to hear of new catamarans.

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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

Best Catamaran Sailboats | Life of Sailing

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.

CATAMARANSPEED (Knots)
Outremer 4X20
McConaghy 5222
Nautitech 4417
ORC 5023
Balance 52620
Gunboat 6220
Privilege Signature 510 (For reference)13
Fountaine Pajot Astréa 42 (For reference)10

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 .

catamaran cruisers photos

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.

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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.

catamaran cruisers photos

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.

catamaran cruisers photos

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? 

catamaran cruisers photos

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.

catamaran cruisers photos

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.

catamaran cruisers photos

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.

Performance Cruising Catamaran

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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Best Cruising Catamaran Brands On The Market Today

22nd oct 2023 by samantha wilson.

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The rise of the cruising catamaran is one of the most exciting changes to the boating world for decades. For many years catamarans couldn’t compete with bluewater monohull sailing yachts—and few would even consider sailing the world in one. But all that has changed. Today, big, spacious, safe, seaworthy catamarans are gracing the oceans in ever increasing numbers, and their positive attributes are hard to argue with, even for the most die-hard of monohull enthusiasts (see our article discussing why more and more sailors are choosing to sail in a catamaran ). 

With more than double the space in the same length of boat as a monohull, cruising cats offer huge amounts of living space, wrap-around views, full-sized galleys, multiple cabins and heads, and spacious decks. They’re fast and sturdy, too, but don’t heel over like a monohull under sail, offering an incredibly stable ride.

There are many excellent boatbuilders making both sailing and motor catamarans, but just as with all other types of boat there is no best one—just the best one for you and your needs. Do you need a large owners’ cabin with extra storage for a couple sailing around the world? Or will you be doing shorter voyages with family or friends and need multiple cabins with bunks? Do you need a catamaran that can be sailed solo or will you always have a small crew? Here we take a look at some of the best cruising catamaran brands producing ocean-going vessels under 60 feet. And be sure to check out Rightboat’s extensive listings for both new and used cruising catamarans for sale . 

Sailing Cruising Catamaran

Fountaine Pajot: Fountaine Pajot is one of the top names in the catamaran world, and they have been instrumental in creating a flourishing cruising cat industry. For more than 40 years, they have been designing and creating both sailing and motor cruising catamarans and have the awards to show for their innovation. They’re typically one step ahead of the game, as exemplified by the launch of their Eco Cruising concept back in 2011 when “green” was still a color. Their 40-foot Isla, the smallest in the range, is also their flagship model. It exemplifies the spirit of the company, whose emphasis is on strong, safe, comfortable boats built with cruising families who seek adventure in mind. All the way up to their 80-foot superyacht, the same focus on luxury, innovation, and pure sailing joy runs through the line. 

Fountaine Pajot boats for sale

Fountaine Pajot

Isla 40, Fountaine Pajot photo

Lagoon Catamarans: Another major player in the cruising catamaran industry, Lagoon has got the recipe just right when it comes to stability, performance, and luxury living. And it seems the industry agrees as attested to by the copious number of awards on their mantelpiece including the latest Multihull of the Year 2023 accolade (from Multihulls World) in the Sail Cruising category for their Lagoon 51. There are another three models under the 51 (and four larger ones); each displays the classic Lagoon style with a good balance of strength, thoughtful design and construction, and performance that is improving in recent models. The clever interior and deck design has made Lagoon one of the top choices for charter companies the world over, with large communal spaces, multiple cabins, and a light, elegant décor style. 

Lagoon boats for sale

Lagoon

Lagoon 51, Lagoon Catamarans photo

Power Catamaran for Cruising

Leopard Catamarans: To include Leopard Catamarans under the power cat section seems to imply that their sailing cats aren’t some of the best in the industry. In fact, the opposite is true, and it’s based on the huge success of their sailing models that the power cats have followed with equal prowess. They are now leading the pack when it comes to small bluewater motor catamarans, a sector that is still in its infancy. The Leopard 53 Powercat and Leopard 46 Powercat—built by Robertson and Caine in South Africa—were so well received that the Leopard 40 followed in 2023. The space achieved is staggering, with the largest flybridge ever seen on a 40-foot vessel. With features such as a full L-shaped galley, 360-degree visibility, three cabins, and two heads, the 40—like its larger predecessors—is a true game changer in motor-cat cruising. 

Leopard boats for sale

Leopard

Leopard 40, Leopard Catamarans photo

Prestige Catamarans: Prestige has just one motor cat in its repertoire, but what an offering it is. At 50 feet it’s at the larger end of our scale—in fact, larger power cats often do fall into the superyacht sector—and offers the impeccable styling we know from Prestige’s sailing catamarans. It’s well-equipped for long passages, and the flybridge can be fitted with a large T-top which protects the entire upper deck during all weathers. Inside it can be configured to suit, with huge en-suite cabins and luxurious family living spaces. While cruising motor catamarans of this size are often dominated by the big shipyards of Fountaine Pajot, Sunreef, and Lagoon, Prestige is certainly giving them a run for their money with the Euphorie 5. 

Prestige boats for sale

Prestige

Prestige M48, Prestige Catamarans photo

Offshore Cruising Catamaran

Antares Catamarans: Made in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Antares Catamarans offers some of the best, most trustworthy, and capable long range sailing catamarans on the market. The entire design is focused on living aboard, with meticulous thought going into the design of their living spaces, with even their aft cabins offering an industry-leading 6.75 feet of headroom. They’re always pushing the boundaries and now offer their flagship Antares 44 as a hybrid version complete with electric motors, solar energy, and a hydrogenerator able to produce 640 watts/hour at 7 knots. For those wanting to embark on true bluewater round- the-world voyages, Antares should be high on the list. 

Antares boats for sale

Antares

Antares 44 GT & Hybrid, Antares Catamarans photo

Outremer: In the company’s own words Outremer build “the ultimate blue-water cruising catamaran” and each of their five models—ranging from 45 to 55 feet—is as high-performance, safe, and cleverly thought-out as the next. Imagine being able to sail a 45-foot yacht across oceans single-handedly. Well, that’s exactly what the Outremer 45 offers with its easy control from the helm station and forgiving handling. At 48 feet, the Outremer 4.zero has a 100% electric motor, allowing for long-range cruising with zero CO2 emissions. From the Outremer 51 family cruiser, with its four-cabin layout, to the innovative Outremer 5X, the largest cruising catamaran that can be easily handled by two people, the company has certainly advanced the art of bluewater catamarans. 

Outremer boats for sale

Outremer

Outremer 45, Outremer photo

Coastal Cruising Catamaran

Maine Cat Catamarans: This family-run brand is based on the MidCoast of Maine and has been producing high-performance composite sailing and power catamarans since 1993. Today, they’re models offer some of the best multihull coastal cruising in the US—as well as being well-equipped for longer-range cruising. They currently offer three models, the 30, 38 and 41, and each is designed for those who truly love the art of sailing. The smallest in the range is a simple, liveaboard weekend cruiser, while the 41 can average an impressive 200 plus miles a day. However, all models are well-equipped for much longer adventures, and all can be sailed solo. 

Maine Cat boats for sale

ME Cat

ME Cat 38, Maine Cat Catamarans photo

Nautitech: To list Nautitech’s beautiful catamarans under the coastal cruising section isn’t to say they’re not highly capable bluewater cruisers. We’ve chosen to place them here, however, for their ability to truly offer the sailing good life. They’re luxurious and spacious, promising evening dining with friends and days spent cruising along shorelines pocked with coves and sandy beaches. All of their models—the 40 Open, 44 Open, and 48 Open—promise a good balance of performance and luxury, and also the grit and sheer space to transport you to the other side of the world. 

Nautitech boats for sale

Nautitech

Nautitech 40 Open, Nautitech photo

Best-Performing Cruising Catamaran

Catana Catamarans: French manufacturer Catana are not newcomers to this industry. In fact they’ve been instrumental in getting the multihull sector to where it is today, having created fast, high-performance catamarans since 1984. The company has put all their energy and expertise into just two current models, the Catana 53 and the Ocean Class, with both offering speed, excitement, and performance as well as strength and safety (but not forgetting the luxury finish). Using a lightweight construction for increased speed and performance, as well as inverted bows and daggerboards, they are high-performance boats ready to sail long distances in challenging seas. 

Catana boats for sale

Catana

Catana 53, Catana photo

Kinetic: While this list looks predominantly at catamarans under 55 feet, mention must be made of Kinetic’s KC54 earning a Special Recognition award in Cruising World ’s Boat of the Year contest. It has been described by experts as the “Tesla of sailboats,” high praise indeed and in our opinion completely justified. For these are seriously high performing cruisers offering all-carbon and infused epoxy resin construction, innovative design and a stylish finish. Kinetic is a semi-custom yard, offering owners the chance to customize their layout, rig, and sail plan as well as the interior furnishings, finishings, fixtures, and equipment. The yacht may cost a few million dollars, but the result is a cruising catamaran perfectly honed for exactly how you want to sail it and where. 

Kinetic official website

Kinetic

KC54, Kinetic Catamarans photo

Sailing Catamaran For Couples

Balance: There is no mistaking a Balance catamaran as it elegantly cruises past. With their iconic brightly colored hulls, they are unmistakable. But a nice finish doesn’t get you awarded Sailing World Magazine’s Boat of the Year 2022: Multihull. Balance is all about, well, balance. Their designers are all racers who have found that perfect point between a high-performance sailing vessel and a practical, easy-to-handle boat that can be sailed across the oceans by a couple. At just 44 feet, the Balance 442 is the smallest yacht in the company’s range. Yet it has everything you would expect of a larger model and is described by the manufacturer as an “agile multi-tasker.” Perfect for island-hopping or trans-oceanic voyages it is an exceptional compact bluewater liveaboard. 

Balance boats for sale

Balance

Balance 442, Balance Catamarans photo

BALI Catamarans: When it comes to long-term cruising, comfort is as important as performance and BALI have developed their own unique approach to space in their four models under 44 feet. They’ve focused on creating an unparalleled amount of living space, panoramic views, excellent natural ventilation, comfort at sea, and all of that with uncompromised safety and seaworthiness. The result is a cruising catamaran well-suited for a couple to sail and live on together for the long term. The owner versions focus on spacious master cabins, huge saloon spaces, and twin helm stations for ease of handling making this a top choice for couples embarking on round-the-world voyages. 

BALI Catamarans boats for sale

Bali

BALI 4.2, BALI Catamarans photo

Small Cruising Catamaran

Seawind: Australian-built Seawind specializes in compact bluewater cruising catamarans, having gained international acclaim for their five models under 45 feet. Each one offers a clever layout, good use of space, and efficient short-handed sailing performance. They have carbon- and Kevlar-reinforced hulls, watertight collision bulkheads, fully protected dual helm stations with 360-degree vision, home-away-from-home comforts. The result is an impressive bluewater cruising yacht in a surprisingly small package, allowing couples and families the change to embark on long-range adventures. 

Seawind boats for sale

Seawind

SeaWind 1260, SeaWind photo

Excess Catamarans: Excess Catamarans produce some of the smallest bluewater cruising cats on our list (and on the market) with their smallest models measuring just 37'5'' and 38'7''. But they are certainly reasonable performers, thanks to design by the French racing firm of VPLP, and they are also impressive both in terms of comfort and space. They’re designed for long-term living (there is even a 6.5-foot square bed in the master cabin) as well as for safety on the high seas, and are capable of transporting their owners anywhere its larger siblings can. With twin helm stations, a racy design, and plenty of well-thought out features and storage, Excess have really set the bar when it comes to pocket cruising cats. 

Excess boats for sale

Excess

Excess 11, Excess Catamarans photo

Other Top Cruising Catamaran Brands

  • HH Catamarans
  • Gunboat Catamarans
  • Maverick Yachts

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

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More from: Samantha Wilson

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2003 Catamaran Cruisers Vagabond - 35' Boat $39,900


Vagabond
2003 $39,900

2003 10x35 CAT CRUSIER, 115 yamaha,generator,30amp shore power,dual batteries,40 gal fresh water,40 gal black water,roof air with heat strip,Front porch,front sliding door,lower stearing helm with full gages,deph gage,AM-FM-CD stereo inside and outside speakers couch sleeper,dinette queen sleeper, rear queen sleeper,3 burner stove,microwave oven,dual sinks,upper and lower cabnets,coffee maker,some cooking utensels,large windows with blinds,small closet/storage,with storage under dinette and bed and upper level pods.toilet with sink and full shower,rear sliding door leading to rear deck,with a swim ladder and an outside shower and ladder to upper deck.The upper deck has sterring helm,helm chair,helm seating for 4-6 with a bimi top. table and chairs with umbrella,3 burner LP gas grill,and a water slide,Floats in only 18 inches of water,to reach those very small private cove areas for your camping experiance. Like having an RV on the water,LOCATED ON BEATUFUL LAKE NORRIS TN.asking 39,900 OR BEST OFFER.

Gas Inboard / Outboard - Single
Fiberglass 35
ARB338B0H203 YAMAHA
2003 220
8 40
10 1
40 40




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40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons

We compare specifications, dimensions, sail area, and pricing on the most popular 40ft catamarans in 2020.

40ft catamaran comparisons

Since 2016, Fountaine Pajot, Lagoon, Leopard, Bali, and Nautitech all rolled out new 40 ft catamaran models in a similar price range that are innovative, spacious, well-built, and comfortable. The latest model to be added to this 40ft array in 2020 is the Bali Catspace.

Bali has done away with the Bali 4.1 model and has designed the Bali Catspace with much improved and innovative features while Lagoon updated their popular L400 and redesigned it with the mast further back to accommodate a self-tacking jib, open scoops, and updated interior. The FP Lucia 40, released in 2016, has pretty much stayed the same, as has the Leopard 40. They are both very popular and successful cats. While the Nautitech Open 40 is a nice sporty sailing cat, it has not really taken hold in the US market with the aft helm stations.

These 40ft catamaran models are affordable and easily be handled by a coupled. It also has all the amenities suitable for a cruising boat such as an ice maker, washing machine, bigger fridge/freezer capacity, and big living spaces, which is very attractive for live-aboard cruising couples. 

The 40ft catamaran holds its value because it is in high demand on the used boat market. The 40ft catamaran size range just makes sense.

Read our previous 40ft comparison article for older models:  How Do The Most Popular 40-ft Production Catamarans Compare?

New 2020 40Ft Catamaran Comparison

The five main production catamaran contenders in 2020 for liveaboard couples are:

  • BALI Catspace
  • FP Lucia 40
  • Nautitech 40 Open

40ft Catamaran Models Specifications

40ft catamaran comparisons

40ft Catamaran Deck & Flybridge Layout Comparison

40ft catamaran comparisons

40ft Catamaran Deck & Flybridge Layout Comparisons

40ft catamaran comparisons

40ft Catamaran Models Sail Plan Comparisons

40ft catamaran comparisons

40ft Catamaran Cabin Layouts Comparisons

3-cabin layout.

40ft catamaran comparisons

4-Cabin Layout

40ft catamaran comparisons

READER'S QUESTION ANSWERED: Andy asked: "Which Cat is the best value and what do you budget for upgrades that deliver an above average sailing and comfort experience?" 

The pricing for the different brands are generally in the same range since this a competitive space and the manufacturers have to make sure they are not priced out of the market. There are essentially no “bad catamarans”. Most are all built to recognized and enforced codes such as the European CE standard, so it comes down to personal preference. Some boats have Balsa cores and others have closed cell foam cores. Some have large nets, others have small nets and some have no nets.

All the forward deck designs are acceptable and safe, as we have now conclusively seen over the last five years. The current trend is smaller nets and larger foredeck areas for the most part on cruising cats. Performance cats all have nets and longer bows and are a different category to the production cruisers. Lagoon has the biggest living space, Bali has the best live-ability overall and FP and Leopard are very popular for couples with the semi-raised helm position but that too is a personal preference.

In terms of the extras or additional options, I normally recommend the following:

  • The largest engine option available – this is important for your exit strategy especially in the US market and of course it is nice to have the extra power since the modern cats have quite a lot of windage.
  • The best winch pack available
  • All the cleats offered
  • Mostly it is smart to take the code zero pack even if you do not order the sail immediately (Difficult and expensive to retro fit)
  • Folding props – I really think that if you are going to do any extended cruising the last thing you want is to be dragging fixed props
  • Air Conditioning if you want to have it
  • Generator unless you are going to go Lithium with all the inverters and electronics to replace the generator.
  • Solar – I normally take the factory option and then add aftermarket to increase the array
  • If possible cable throttles and not electronic (If you are struck by lightning at least you can still control the engines if they still run)
  • Electrically assisted davits at a minimum – your dinghy is your “car” so one needs to have an efficient handling system (we raise our dinghy every night for security)
  • Watermaker is fantastic to have. It really makes life so much easier.
  • Estelle will definitely opt for the washing machine – we never had one but since she’s had it onboard our Lagoon 450, she will not go without again.

Which Is Your Favorite 40ft Catamaran?

So many cruisers and liveaboard couples choose their dream boats from this new 40ft catamaran market. Which is your favorite catamaran and why? Leave your comment below!

Contact us for more information, price lists, specifications, and available charter management programs.

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Estelle Cockcroft

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12 thoughts on “40ft Catamaran Models Comparisons”

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Fabulous article and great comparisons, thank you. How do they sail? Is there any real difference?

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HI Chrissy thank you! The performance of the boats are all very similar. They are all cruising cats, so not exactly rocket ships but totally adequate for a an average cruising couple. You could get a little more performance out of any of these boats depending on how aggressively you sail the boat and the type of sails you have. We race our boat and almost always end up in the top three boats.

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Thank you for your article, I think we will go for the Catspace

Your welcome! I think you will be very happy with this choice. Only recommendation for any of these models, is upgrade the engines to 40hp.

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In your opinion, which Cat is the the best value and what would you budget for upgrades that deliver an above average sailing and comfort experience? Obviously upgrades can be all over the map but you mentioned upgrading engine to 40hp – what else do you feel are almost ‘required’ upgrades? Thanks!

The pricing for the different brands are generally in the same range since this a competitive space and the manufacturers have to make sure they are not priced out of the market. There are essentially no bad catamarans, most are all built to recognized and enforced codes such as CE so it comes down to personal preference. Some boats have Balsa cores and other have closed cell foam cores, others have large nets, some have small nets and some have no nets, all designs are acceptable as we have now conclusively seen over the last five years.The trend is to smaller nets and larger foredeck areas for the most part. Performance boats all have nets and longer bows and are a different category to the production cruisers. Lagoon is good bang for your buck, Bali has the best liveability and space overall and FP and Leopard are very popular for couples because of the helm position.

In terms of the extras or additional options I normally recommend the following: The largest engine option available – this is important for your exit strategy especially in the US market and of course it is nice to have the extra power since the modern cats have quite a bot of windage. the best winch pack available All the cleats offered Mostly it is smart to take the code zero pack even if you do not order the sail immediately (Difficult and expensive to retro fit) Folding props – I really think that if you are going to do any extended cruising the last thing you want is to be dragging fixed props Air Conditioning if you want to have it Generator unless you are going to go Lithium with all the inverters and electronics to replace the generator. Solar – I normally take the factory option and then add aftermarket to increase the array If possible cable throttles and not electronic (If you are struck by lightning at least you can still control the engines if they still run) Electrically assisted davits at a minimum – your dinghy is your car so one needs to have an efficient handling system (we raise our dinghy every night for security) Watermaker is fantastic to have. It really makes life so much easier. Estelle will definitely opt for the washing machine – we never had one but since she’s ahd it onboard our Lagoon 450, she will not go without again.

This is a big subject and there are many opinions, I would be happy to discuss further -Stephen

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We have a 2020 Leopard 40 Owners version. We love it. Just wish it carried a bit more fuel.

Hi Eugene, yes! The Leopards are very popular and we sell many of them. They are definitely a great bang for your buck. Thank you for your input!

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The 40 Open has the longest WL, Largest Sail Area and has the lightest displacement… indicating it ‘should’ sail better than the others. Other than the helm position, what are the other differences (drawbacks?) you have observed or can comment on (if any)? It appears to be trying to straddle the ‘performance / cruiser’ designation… would you say it is successful?

Doug, yes you are correct however it is a displacement hull, just like the other cats in this category and while it may be a little lighter and have a bigger sailplan, it sails marginally faster, so that is not too much of a factor. In general they are nice boats but the living space is small and just like the new Excess range from Lagoon, the biggest drawback of these cats in our market is the helm position. The aft helm station have just never caught on, which is the reason that Catana and Outremer also moved their helm stations to the bulkhead rather than on the sterns.

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Any chance on getting a 2024 update of the 40ft-ish Catamaran Models Comparison?

We will look into it for you

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19-01-2021, 19:44  
a and sailing in to the sunset would do that for me.

I have $AUD 150,000 so I was wondering what you would recommend. Initially I would plan to learn by sailing around and then I'd want to make my way to when the world allows it. After that who knows. I have been told that for sailing">blue sailing 37ft is recommended?

I am new to this world and any or tips is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!
19-01-2021, 21:37  
Boat: Fisher pilothouse sloop 32'
a and sailing in to the sunset would do that for me.

I have $AUD 150,000 so I was wondering what you would recommend. Initially I would plan to learn by sailing around and then I'd want to make my way to when the world allows it. After that who knows. I have been told that for 37ft is recommended?

I am new to this world and any or tips is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!
19-01-2021, 21:39  
Boat: Reinke S10 & Raven 26
and Happy New Year dowlo,

Hoping that you'll gain help and useful information from joining and in the forum.

Your question might be a little wide to receive any decent answers; it's not much different than saying "I want to drive around Australia and I prefer 4 wheels, what would be the best vehicle?"

Perhaps do a little on sites like Gumtree, and see what cats are available in your range. When you find something that appeals ask the forum what others thing of the listing. You'll be amazed how perceptive some people here have a really good eye, even from photos.

'buy a in Ozstralia' and there are a bunch of such sites. Obviously relatively close to where you are would make viewing and test sailing etc much simpler.

Here's a I'd definitely be looking at if I were in Oz.

Always do feel free to post your own thoughts, questions and ideas here on CF. The forum only works when people post, and 95% of members here seem reluctant. Don't be a lurker. Good luck with your search and let is know if you find anything.
19-01-2021, 21:42  
Boat: Jeanneau SO409
19-01-2021, 22:14  
Boat: Cruising Catamaran
of $150kAUD you may have a very limited choice plus cost of bringing up to a level to cross oceans.
19-01-2021, 23:12  
question what would you think about something like this:



Also experience wise you could say I am a beginner and I would like something I could sail by myself if I have to.

Thanks in advance!
20-01-2021, 01:21  
Boat: Woods Flica catamaran
you may have to put some in. But older cats are still good if maintained. See what takes your fancy and then ask on here for opinion's
20-01-2021, 02:33  
checks on as you do with cars? Or is that not a thing?

Thanks again
20-01-2021, 10:31  
Boat: Knysna 440 once I get my new dock and the canal gets dredged
checks on boats as you do with cars? Or is that not a thing?

Thanks again
20-01-2021, 10:59  
Boat: None,build the one shown of glass, had many from 6' to 48'.
.
20-01-2021, 11:09  
Boat: FP, Eleuthera 60
Solutions, they are friendly, knowledgeable and very trustworthy. They have a ton of knowledge with catamarans.
I did not buy my catamaran from them yet they went out of their way to help me, so I recommend them.
Good Luck....learn to sail first, start with a little boat, I mean little.
20-01-2021, 11:33  
your contacts to sail on other people's boats. Take lessons. If you are still interested buy a boat 20 - 25ft. Learn to sail that in all weathers. Then look again at your ocean voyages.
Good Luck,
M
20-01-2021, 12:25  
Boat: Lightwave 45 catamaran
1000 which are glass and foam .
20-01-2021, 12:31  
Boat: Custom Catamaran


Also experience wise you could say I am a beginner and I would like something I could sail by myself if I have to.

Thanks in advance!
20-01-2021, 14:15  
, potentially handed cruising and ideally, eventually, . Some of the things I have been looking at specifically are:
Beam: 15’ is cheaper to and keep in a slip than larger ones. I don’t know where the line is drawn, I don’t think there is a hard and fast number for this, so I have been aiming for 15’-16’.
Ability to be sailed handedly.
Good for sailing.
I think I’d prefer a trampoline than a solid , I have heard that there is a possibility of “slapping” in rougher seas making for a difficult time sleeping even at .
Sugar scoops are preferable as I will be doing some .
system.
.
Main sail lazy jack system.
If it already has solar/wind that’s great.
I have spent the last 51 years running around as fast as I can. Speed of the boat is helpful, but not too important me.
These are some of the results of my research in no particular order.
: Good boats, the only ones in my price range are in really bad condition and I’m not willing to put in that much effort.
36 MkII LRC: Built for shorthanded long range cruising. Beam is wider than I’d like (18’ 3”). Solid boat and manufacturer. (See for further)
Prout (Event, Snowgoose, Manta): The Snowgoose was my number one for a long time. It has a long history of sailing single and shorthanded, narrow beam, the only down side in my opinion is the solid foredeck and the lack of sugarscoops. (See and for more)
Athena 38: Love everything about the boat, but the beam is very wide (20’ 8”). It is still edging in on being my number one choice at the moment. The layout is beautiful with lots of light.
105Mc: I see loads of them . There is long range cruiser model, but I can’t find it at the moment, although I may be confusing it with the LRC. It is a good boat and affordable.
That’s not nearly an exhaustive list, just where my is at while pondering the same issue as yourself. I will be looking to buy in around two – two and a half years.
Good luck, keep us informed.
Mike

Informative advice is always good, but good advice isn’t always informative.


 
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Never-seen-before video shows how innovative catamaran superyacht brings futuristic concept to reality.

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This innovative superyacht catamaran from the Italian Sea Group is unlike any other catamaran

One of the many things I love about my job as a yachting journalist is that I get to interact with a rare breed of creatively courageous people who are constantly pushing the envelope of what’s possible when it comes to yacht design and construction.

And when it comes to pushing the envelope of what’s possible, few yachts have created more buzz than the 143-foot-long and 47-foot WIDE catamaran THIS IS IT that Italian Sea Group Art Director and project manager, Gian Marco Campanino, R&D Centro Stile team Director, Mattia Piro, and exterior designers Lateral Naval Architects have designed for Tecnomar Yachts to build.

And the best part is since it was sold and project managed by IYC Global Managing Partner Michel Chryssicopoulos . "This is definitely one of the most exciting and ground breaking projects we have ever worked on!” Chryssicopoulos says. And IYC is offering it for charter so anyone (who has the means of course) can experience this innovative yacht for themselves.

The master suite onboard This Is It

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According to the Italian Sea Group’s Mattia Piro and Gian Marco Campanino, “The reference inspiration for the style comes from the automotive world, therefore based on aerodynamics rules, fluid and organic lines, and flexible and dynamic shapes. Naturally, what applies to external lines also applies to interior styling. Smooth, "cocooning" and curvilinear are perfect words to describe the interior "mood and feel", plus a touch of pure luxury due to the use of sophisticated and precious materials.”

And as you can see in these photos and exclusive video, the entire yacht embodies the feel of an ultra-modern luxury villa with generous amounts of well-designed living space.

The angled aft deck of This Is It

The yacht's communal areas benefit from the catamarans' wide beam, resulting i vast spaces for entertaining, dining, and relaxation. Large sliding glass doors open to create a light and airy atmosphere with a fluid transition between the interior and exterior spaces, allowing guests to enjoy both while maintaining a strong connection with the ocean. Accommodation is for 12 guests across six ensuite cabins, including a large owner's cabin with a private balcony. There are also accommodations for 12 crew.

The aft dining area

The expansive use of glass throughout, including the floor-to-ceiling windows and carefully positioned 11-foot-tall skylights, floods the interior with natural light. The yacht also features a panoramic terrace with a unique vertical garden spanning two decks.

The upper deck houses a spa with a dedicated treatment area and sauna and the swimming pool straddles both hulls on the aft deck. An extendable dock gives plenty of space for an array of jet skis, wakeboards, paddleboards, sea bobs, kayaks, sea-scooters, and e-foils.

This Is It underway

Throughout the catamaran, there are various areas for group activities, making it an ideal platform to host a multitude of events. There are several dining space options, including a galley with polarized glass, enabling front-row seats for guests to witness the chef in action. The main saloon bar provides a central point for parties and other celebrations, complete with strategically placed seating and lounging to accommodate larger groups.

The master suite skylight is 11 feet tall

Has this style of catamaran started an exciting new design trend? I think so. But you’ll have to wait for my story on all the new yachts that will be at the upcoming Monaco Yacht Show to find out for sure!

Bill Springer

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