Catamaran owners swear by two-hull sailing; monohull sailors allege that one hull is the only way to go. The truth is, both designs have clear benefits, and it really just comes down to preference. Where do you fit in? Here’s a quick run-down of the advantages that each type offers to help you make your decision.
Cruising Catamarans – Some Benefits
- Stability: The most-mentioned benefits of catamarans usually have something to do with not spilling coffee. It’s not necessarily that cats are for people who are afraid to heel. A cat is just more comfortable, whether you’re at anchor or underway.
- Draft: Cats can get into some of those great shallow anchorages.
- Speed: Less wetted surface area = less resistance = more speed.
- Maneuverability Under Power: Twin screw docking is a dream.
- Interior Comfort: While monohull sailors can feel like cave-dwellers inside their cabins, in a catamaran, you’re hanging out above the water in a bright, spacious environment.
Cruising Monohulls – Some Benefits
- Maneuverability Under Sail: Many purists say that there’s nothing like short-tacking into a harbor. Pivoting on your keel is certainly one of the joys of sailing.
- Feel at the Helm: While catamaran sailors often try to dispute this claim, most sailors are steadfast in their belief that it just feels better to drive a monohull than a cat.
- Better Upwind Sailing: Cats may generally be faster, but as a rule, monohulls point higher.
- Price: Catamarans generally cost more to build and are priced accordingly. Buyers with fewer funds may opt for a monohull.
- Dockage / Haulout: Monohulls often have an easier time finding space in a tight marina. And not all travelifts can handle the beam of a cat. Even still, when catamaran owners find the services they need, they often end up paying more.
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