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How To Pick a Small Catamaran — Everything You Need to Know

Catamarans have had the sailing world abuzz for several decades now. To the salty monohull sailors’ chagrin, they aren’t going away any time soon. They’re roomy, comfortable, spacious, airy, and light-filled. They ride flat and don’t heel over when the breeze freshens. When you step aboard a modern catamaran, even the most landlubber-y of landlubbers can envision moving aboard and setting sail to distant horizons. 

There’s no set definition, so we’ll have to look to the boat manufacturers for answers. If you look at the lineup from Leopard, Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Bali, and others, you’ll find that the smallest cats are generally somewhere between 38 to 40 feet long. There are other manufacturers making some 35-foot boats, but these look a lot different.

The appeal of the small catamaran is nothing new, and many different boat makers have made attempts over the years. Here are a few things you might want to consider before purchasing a small catamaran boat.

small catamaran sailboat

Table of Contents

What is a small catamaran sailboat, pros of a small catamaran boat, cons of small catamaran boats, not all catamarans have the same feel.

  • Size (Of Your Liveaboard Catamaran) Matters 

Priorities: Affordable Catamarans or Small Catamarans?

  • Picking the Right Small Sail Catamaran 

Best Small Catamaran FAQs

For liveaboard, long-distance sailors, a small catamaran is a twin-hulled sailboat between 35 and 40 feet long. 

There are a few designs, but the most comfortable ones are those with wide beams and the hulls set farther apart. This size catamaran is necessary to ensure the boat can carry enough supplies and retains enough stability to be safe at sea. However, these small boats still feel very large and have beams of 19 to 21 feet. Boats of this size have twin diesel inboard engines. These boats come with four cabins or three cabins in an “owner’s version” layout.

Many of these boats could be described as French-style charter catamarans. Examples of boats like this include those made by Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot. South African companies like Leopard make them too, and there are a few one-off designs, like the American-made Manta share these features. 

Generally speaking, a 38-foot-long, 21-foot-wide sailboat is not a small one. But if you love the French-style catamaran, this is about the smallest you’ll find. That’s because this type of boat depends on its width for stability and its length for carrying a load. A shorter boat is very easy to overload. Most boat makers, Lagoon, Bali, Leopard, and the rest, currently make nothing less than 37 feet. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katamarans (@katamarans)

But there are some smaller options. 

On the other end of the spectrum from the super-wide French-style cat, there are small catamaran sailboat designs built for day-tripping and short-term coastal cruising. These are often narrower than offshore boats and can be stored in a regular boat slip. This is an especially important consideration in coastal areas where big offshore catamarans aren’t very common and marina options are limited. 

These boats will sometimes have beams of 15 feet or less. These smaller and lighter boats are often propelled by a single engine, either an inboard diesel or a gasoline outboard. All of these factors make them cheaper. 

Examples of boats like this, small and made for nearshore coastal cruising, are the 105MC from Gemini Catamarans and the Endeavour 30. The Gemini is one of the most popular coastal cruiser cats made. It is 35 feet long with a single center-mounted diesel inboard engine, retractable centerboards for shallow-water cruising, and distinctive hard dodger. They usually have two cabins or three cabins and one or two heads.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jeremy Ryan Davidson (@jeremy_ryan_photo)

A third group of catamarans doesn’t fit neatly into these two categories. They lie somewhere between small, say 30 to 37 feet, and are built well enough to be considered bluewater boats. They take their designs from seaworthy British catamarans built in the 1980s and 1990s, namely those built by Catalac and Prout. These were solid boats built tough to take on the North Sea that earned the excellent reputation they still have today. The Island Packet PacketCat and Dean Catamarans 365 are two more recent examples.

They tend not to be as beamy as the French charter catamarans and are much less common. However, for owners lucky enough to find a good one, they make excellent long-distance cruisers and liveaboard boats.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nadia & Joël autour du monde (@sailing_gypsy_sirena)

Of course, the smallest catamaran of all is the beach cat that everyone is familiar with. It’s nothing more than two small hulls connected by poles and netting. Fun and fast, there’s no better toy on the resort’s beach. They have no interior accommodation—they are just for day sailing. We’ll keep our discussion limited to liveaboard catamaran options. 

Catamarans appeal to many sailors, but the reasons folks like them vary from person to person. For example, some are in love with the way cats sail. Faster and lighter than monohulls, they speed up quickly in light wind and skip over the waves. 

Others prefer the living space aboard a catamaran. They usually have open, airy salons with tons of light and fresh air everywhere. Big windows are the norm, unlike monohulls described by many as “caves.”

Here are a few reasons to consider a small catamaran with cabin. 

  • Cheaper than bigger catamarans
  • Shallow draft for exploring more places, especially compared to fixed keels on monohulls
  • Easy handling and happy sailing
  • Large windows and great ventilation in the living space
  • Large, open cockpits to entertain guests
  • Faster cruising than a similar-sized monohull
  • More interior living space than a monohull
  • Does not heal under sail as monohulls do—rides flatter
  • Fits in more slips and at more marinas than larger, wider boats
  • The narrower the boat, the more boatyards are available to you
  • One diesel engine price tag—keeps boat and maintenance cheap compared to twin inboard diesels
  • Option for outboard engines, which saves even more money in maintenance—some smaller boats have one or two outboard engines
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elena und Ben (@elenaundben)

There are some struggles for catamaran and would-be catamaran owners, of course. But, by far, the biggest problem you’ll face with choosing a small catamaran is the problem of having limited choices. There aren’t many cats in the world when you compare them to monohulls, and those catamarans you find are more expensive.

Another problem with small catamarans is that they are very sensitive to overloading. While they have lots of storage space, they can’t hold much weight. As the hulls ride lower in the water, sailing performance and overall stability decrease. In other words, a catamaran will hold less weight than a monohull of a similar length.

  • Fewer available on the market than monohulls
  • Interior space feels different than that on bigger models
  • Weight carrying capacity is less than may be required for comfortable long-distance cruising
  • Lack of overall stability due to narrower beams
  • Seakeeping and ride qualities are poorer than long cats
  • Some find the ride quality of shorter catamarans to be uncomfortable
  • Lightly built with thin fiberglass layups, susceptible to flexing issues—some require more repair and maintenance than similar-sized and aged monohulls
  • High-quality offshore models are hard to find
  • Low bridgedeck clearance may mean wave slapping and pounding with some boats on some points of sail

Tips When Shopping for a Small Catamaran Sailboat

Here are a few things to remember if you want to purchase a small catamaran with cabin. 

When looking at the latest models, you’ll see that catamaran construction has changed quite a bit in the last two decades. So it’s really important to understand what you like so much about your dream catamaran. 

Is it the open feeling you get when standing in the salon, looking out of those huge windows? Or is it the way you can easily walk from the salon to the cockpit to the side decks or helm without stepping up and over seats, in and out of a deep cockpit? What about the easy access to your dinghy, which is on davits at the rear? Or maybe it’s the way that there’s plenty of light below decks in your cabin, and the boat feels open and airy?

The choices look very different when you start downsizing and looking at small cruising cats. Some or all of these features were things that designers had to learn to do. In some cases, they’re still learning how to do them. And in some cases, they’re impossible to do on a small boat. 

Size (Of Your Liveaboard Catamaran) Matters

Small catamarans have never been and will never be designed to carry a load. Catamarans are performance-oriented, even if some are built for charter and look like condo buildings. When you stuff too much weight in a catamaran, its sailing characteristics are degraded. As the waterline gets lower and lower, the boat sails noticeably slower, and stability is adversely affected. 

As a result, it’s frightfully easy to overload a small catamaran. Going out for a daysail is easy, as you might only bring a towel and some water. But living aboard or traveling long distances is another thing entirely. With a catamaran under 37 feet, it is very difficult not to overload it while keeping enough stuff—tools, spare parts, food/groceries, water, fuel, clothes, gadgets, books, etc. Cats 35 feet and under can be dangerously overloaded, which is another reason these boats are usually not generally considered bluewater vessels.

This is one of the biggest reasons you don’t see many small catamarans being built and crossing oceans—most people need more stuff than a small cat can safely hold. 

So with the quality of the living space and the weight of your stuff in mind, most cruising couples are most comfortable on a 40 or 42-foot catamaran. Peformance-wise, a 42 or 44-foot catamaran is the sweet spot for most. Unfortunately, these boats are expensive! Much more so than a 35-footer. 

Shorter catamarans also handle big seas differently. The shorter a catamaran is, the more likely it is to hobby horse—the tendency towards a quick, bow-up bow-down motion at sea. This is another reason that 44-footers are ideal—they’re long enough to escape this tendency and ride better in open water. Plus, their longer waterlines and narrower hulls mean these bigger cats will be significantly faster on all points of sail. If you want to see a list of bigger catamarans, check out our list of the best liveaboard catamarans .

So, you must approach your choice with these things in mind. A lot of people downsize their plans to fit their budget. But are you willing to put up with the problems associated with a smaller catamaran than you need? Would a different type of boat actually suit your goals better?

small catamaran boat

Picking the Right Small Sail Catamaran

Every boat purchase is a compromise, and there is never a perfect boat that can do everything. First, keep a clear mental picture of your goals and what you love about the catamarans you’ve seen. Then, keep an open mind! There are so many different types of boats, and catamarans are just one of them. 

When you’re ready to start shopping for a small catamaran sailboat, check out our list of cheap catamarans for some great options in the under-40-foot range.

What are small catamarans called?

A small catamaran is a boat with two hulls. The smallest are beach catamarans like the Hobie Cat . For liveaboard sailors, small catamarans are between 35 and 40 feet long.

How much does a small catamaran cost?

Prices for small catamarans vary greatly depending on the boat’s popularity, quality, and design. For example, one of the most popular small liveaboard catamarans is the French-built Lagoon 380, built from 1999 to 2020. Depending on features, age, and location, these boats currently sell for between $200,000 and $400,000. On the other hand, the much smaller American-built Gemini 105MC can be found for half as much. 

What is the best small catamaran to live on?

Everyone is looking for something a little different in their liveaboard catamaran. The Lagoon 380 and Fountaine Pajot Mahe are popular options if you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable charter catamaran. 

What is the smallest catamaran to circumnavigate?

Many catamarans in the 35-foot range have successfully circumnavigated. Smaller ones have likely made the trip, albeit less comfortably. But generally, most sailors agree that a 38 to 40-foot cat would be the smallest size that should make the trip, and a 42 to 44-footer would be best. The WorldARC, a 15-month-long around-the-world sailing rally hosted by the World Cruising Club, requires boats to have a 40-foot length, although they will consider smaller vessels on a case-by-case basis.  

small catamaran reddit

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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01-04-2023, 05:36  
Boat: Leopard 40
. Once she is finished chartering we plan to on her. It will be more than big enough for the 3 of you. Highly recommend the owners version layout no matter what yacht you choose.
01-04-2023, 05:40  
should be considered more than satisfactory.

If you are thinking you need a of that size, you completely missed the point of “Go small, go simple.”

If you buy the biggest you can afford to buy, you WILL be sucked dry by the and running costs which do NOT go down as a boat gets older and less expensive to .
01-04-2023, 05:54  
Boat: Leopard 40
and see what you think could for you. Could be well spent in the long run!
01-04-2023, 05:59  
designs, but they are about wringing the best bang for your buck, so in that regard with the market as it is, can see their point. Definitely worth a read.
01-04-2023, 12:40  
Boat: Volkscruiser
loved being read to when young and now are happy to read for hours on wet days. Not to mention all those hours in the while on . Most of our come from markets and op shops so it doesn't have to be expensive.
Did you know Johur Bahru in has a Lego Land theme park and there's a marina close by? We flew there pre covid and had an amazing time.
Thom225 meant to say beasts of , those boats are more like little ships. I also have seen written that the Pardeys were short (Midgets according to George Buehler) so smaller boats were not such an issue. Thom225 also talks about down time onboard. But one of the advantages of a smaller boat is you can afford more shore excursions. I would rather a Benny 35 than a cat and with the difference hire cars, stay in more marina's and be a tourist. We could have afforded a bigger boat but the sacrifices outweighed the advantages.
Cheers
02-04-2023, 19:42  
. Good point about using savings from a smaller boat as a means of getting out to explore more destinations…that makes sense for sure.

aqfishing - not much - I helped with a that took a couple of days on a 45’ and so I got a sense of things on that trip, but still need to get a lot more time out there with my (beyond just daysailing) to really start gaining a sense of what the dynamics might look like and to learn how to live on a boat etc.

I can’t wait to start making that happen! I’m not rushing into paying for super expensive or charters just yet and am keeping my eyes peeled for opportunities to help crew, to help with deliveries, etc.

But we may bite the bullet and sign up for a trip or a in the near future depending on how things progress.

Thanks all!
03-04-2023, 06:45  
Boat: 1998 Rosborough 246 LSV
for years - sufficient room for a pre-teen to have a private for years of growth and sailing. While there is one , sharing isn't to difficult.

I converted the 3ed cabin into a pantry - also necessary for a growing teen.

If you are handy, you can pick up an older Gem for under $10k - with lots of sweat labor, it can serve your for years on the .

Much lower costs than similar sailboats - everything is designed to be owner serviced as much as possible.

Look for an older boat if $$$ are an issue. The older inboard inboards use a unique outdrive system that is no longer built and hard to service-get .

I beached my Gem at high tide and painted the bottom once a year at low tide.

enjoy.
03-04-2023, 07:16  
Boat: Lagoon 450S
for those times when you want a slip. If you plan to go , then I would buy a bigger boat. A bigger boat will be safer and more comfortable in large seas, plus you can carry more spares and be self sufficient.

As far as your timing, I’m a little bit older than you, but still retired early. If you’re five to seven years out, a lot will change in that time frame. You’ll probably end up on a boat you haven’t even thought of at this point. You may have more (or less) than you think by the time you go cruising. When I started down this path, I would have never imagined a global pandemic would come into play!! 😂
03-04-2023, 07:32  
Boat: shopping
would suffice for our needs. We had been considering only 45 range for but also waterline.


How do all of you feel about the waterline issue with respect to stability and speed on a shorter boat versus a long one (say 38' compared to 45')? Is a 38' boat going to hobby horse so much, track so poorly, or be so slow as to be unacceptable? Would this be more or less true only on long passages? Would this render shorter boats coastal cruisers only?


Just trying to clarify things I have read, heard, or experienced that seem to be potentially conflicting.

Thanks!
03-04-2023, 08:06  
Boat: Furtuna 37', 1980
03-04-2023, 09:14  
? I out of the Apostle Islands on . Let me know if you ever want to do some cruising with your family. My wife and I are always looking for sailing buddies.



on behalf of myself as well as my wife and my two-year-old son.

Situation: We're hoping to set off cruising in about five to seven years at our rate of saving. Currently we're focused on taking courses and accepting whatever opportunities that come our way to get onto boats and gain experience.

When we leave, I would likely be 45, she would be 43, and kiddo would be 9.

My question for the forum: Are there any folks out there who set out cruising under similar circumstances and who opted for boats that were smaller (or even quite a bit smaller) than what the norm seems to be on YouTube?

A smaller boat (e.g. , Prout Snowgoose, etc) seems appealing in many ways because it would be easier for getting started, easier to manage, to maintain, etc. However, there are obvious downsides as well: less living space, more motion while underway (and while anchored) etc.

The default option for us that I have in mind might be something like a production Lagoon/Leopard/FP of about 40-45 feet...but a smaller boat also seems appealing in a lot a lot of ways too, esp. during initial phases, since prices would be lower for buying/maintaining/repair, and I have the sense that it would be easier to operate the boat.

My primary concern with a smaller boat would just be that we'd kill each other being confined in such a small space all the time haha!

I know we are years out, but it's great to begin forming a picture with as much lead time as possible and to learn about others' experience so we don't need to learn every lesson the hard -- and expensive! -- way.

Thanks all for your time and for your thoughts!
03-04-2023, 10:18  
Boat: Amel 41
36. I have not sailed a Prout or Sea , but they look like the same species. down is the only way to go on cats under 40ft.
03-04-2023, 10:56  
and running a 45’ boat will be huge huge. Plus it’s easily handled. There really is no need to buy a huge boat.
03-04-2023, 11:28  
? Small would be fine for 3 people. By small I mean maybe in the 36 ft range. Seems most cats are bigger so your choices may be limited. You'll likely have 3 sleeping cabins on a cat.

I dont think the "closeness " will feel much different on 36 ft or 44 ft on a cat. You still will have separate sleeping and main will be similar layout. - Elmore Leonard








03-04-2023, 22:00  
? I charter out of the Apostle Islands on . Let me know if you ever want to do some cruising with your family. My wife and I are always looking for sailing buddies.
 
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Small Catamaran Comparison: Excess 11 vs. Bali Catsmart

The size of catamarans has seen an increase over the years, with boats measuring 45′ now considered average-sized and prices soaring to reach one million euros and more… It’s almost as if the shipyards have forgotten the success of smaller catamarans like the Lagoon 380 and its 800 units built.

Almost simultaneously, two shipyards have revived these smaller sized boats with very different approaches: the Excess 11 and the Bali Catsmart .

Different because the catamaran landscape includes two major types of boats – the ultra-light and very sporty catamarans, and the very well-equipped boats, which are more comfort-orientated. The Excess 11 and the Catsmart position themselves between these two extremes, each by using a different yet appealing recipe to create affordable four-cabin catamarans.

Excess 11, a sailors’ catamaran

small catamaran reddit

Honor to the older of the two, the Excess 11, which first showcased at the Dusseldorf Boot 2020 boat show. Excess is a recent brand from the Beneteau group aimed at producing lighter, simpler catamarans, offering more sailing sensations than their heavy Lagoon counterparts.

Excess catamarans, while they sail well, are not designed for racing or regattas – they are not high-performance vessels that tolerate no errors. Rather, they are comfortable cruising catamarans, but with a sporty look, and capable of offering great sailing sensations. While large catamarans with a hydraulic steering system have other advantages, they tend to provide little more navigating pleasure than that of a heavy machine carving its way through the waves.

On the Excess, special care has been taken to satisfy the sailing enthusiast. Very often, and we see this at our bases every season, sailing enthusiasts switch to catamarans for family reasons. This change is made at the sacrifice of the very soul of sailing, the pleasure of steering a well-adjusted sailboat and feeling the sensations of its motion. Several technical solutions have been adopted to improve its handling. With an Excess, there is no sacrifice!

This is especially true for the Excess 11, as the first two models from Excess (12 and 15) used the hulls of a Lagoon catamaran . The Excess 11 is the first boat in the range to be built on its own molds.

Excess 11, a sporty look

small catamaran reddit

It is hard not to succumb to the charm of this catamaran when you see it for the first time. With its massive bulging bows, a set-back cockpit, a long roof overhang, and the mast positioned forward of the cockpit, it has a rather pleasant roadster-like appearance. It’s a boat that captures attention, especially since its hull has immediately recognizable features and it can be delivered in gray. The cockpit position, which suits it so well, is dictated purely by sailing considerations.

By moving the cockpit aft, the mast could be moved forward on the main beam (the primary structural component of the boat that connects the two hulls) without the mast’s support interfering with the interior space. With a forward mast, you gain in mainsail area and therefore in power and speed. The boat also comes with a self-tacking jib, making it easy to handle with a reduced crew, and has a bowsprit designed to accommodate a code sail.

This design is also reflected in the two steering stations, which are located at the very rear of each hull, in a position reminiscent of monohulls. From the rear, you can see the tips of the hulls and the sails, but you are also close to the boat’s social: the cockpit and the saloon. The skipper is no longer isolated, alone on the flybridge.

A catamaran full of sailing-oriented details

small catamaran reddit

Each steering station is equipped with a wheel, positioned just like on a monohull, close to the pulleys of each rudder. The steering of these boats is carried out by means of Dyneema lines. These ultra-solid textile tiller ropes are relatively short, and offer the skipper sailing sensations very close to those experienced on a monohull. These short tiller ropes are not used on larger boats, which prefer hydraulic or cable-controlled actuators – both of which completely eliminate the steering feedback.

small catamaran reddit

In the front, the path of the anchor chain and the davit have been moved slightly off-centre to clear the bowsprit, intended to be used with a code zero (not present on the charter/rental version).

The shipyard has done a fine job with its supplier of lines and ropes. Halyards, ropes, reefing lines, tiller ropes and moorings are all braided in a range of assorted colors, but are made in such a way as to remain distinguishable at a glance. Inside, this work is also found on the drawer handles made of cordage.

About the space

small catamaran reddit

Inside, there is headroom of more than 2 1⁄2-feet throughout. In the cockpit, there is the galley, a dining table and a navigation table. The atmosphere is bright, with whites, grey floors and minimal use of wood.

small catamaran reddit

In the hulls, there are three or four cabins, whose aft cabins stand out due to their large 6.5×6.5-foot beds! The cabins share a bathroom per hull.

Excess 11 in three figures: 11.33 m / 37.17 ft overall length, 6.59 m / 21.62 ft beam, 9 tons and 77 m2 / 828.52 ft2 of upwind sail area.

Bali Catsmart

small catamaran reddit

A Bali powerhouse of 36 feet When Bali announced its Catsmart, the word on the docks was that a wave of panic rose at Lagoon, which had no such project in the pipeline…

The Catsmart is also a 36-foot catamaran, whose configuration is totally different from that of the Excess. Here, Bali has incorporated almost all the design strengths of its other models to create a concentrated vessel of smaller size. The price, fully equipped, is also modest, at less than €500,000.

And Bali catamarans have no shortage of strengths. It is these distinctive elements of comfort and differentiation that have contributed so much to the lightning-fast success of this range of cruising catamarans.

A solid forward deck and XXL sunbeds

small catamaran reddit

Up front, where competitors install trampolines, Bali decks the entire forward section. This approach offers various advantages despite what the competition (may) say about the additional weight at the front. It works well to provide additional outdoor space with a table where the entire crew can gather.

A table, but also an enormous sunbathing area, covered with cushions designed to stay in place while sailing. This forward arrangement is particularly pleasant when cruising. Early in the morning while the sun is still low it’s a pleasure to have an open-air meal, just like dining on a terrace.

At lunch and in the evening, you can equally enjoy the shelter of the roof and its overhang to escape the sun.

A fused cockpit-saloon area

small catamaran reddit

In the aft cockpit area is merged seamlessly with the saloon thanks to the tilting rear wall, which allows the boat to be used “fully open air” in temperate weather, or closed, after the sun sets. This clever combination allows the use of a single, larger table at this place, with a comfortable sofa opposite. Inside, the kitchen faces the direction of sailing and occupies the entire width of the boat.

Bali Catsmart’s pivoting rear door lends great versatility to its common areas. No redundant furniture: the use of space is maximised. Operating the door is very easy, and its operation is similar to that of a garage door. The comparison ends there though, as the Catsmart’s door is insulated and coated with a gel coat.

The forward-facing kitchen is pleasant for the cook, who can quickly lose sight of his recipes if he lets himself get caught up in the view. This configuration is made possible by the absence of a front door, which is the only Bali detail that the shipyard could not incorporate into the highly successful Catsmart.

Both helm stations are placed, as on the Excess, at the very back of the hulls. The starboard station is the primary one with two winches. The winch for the mainsail is located aft and handles the mainsail traveler and the headsail sheet (self-tacking), while the other winch manages the reefs and halyards. Just in front of the console, the headsail furler block is within easy reach of the helmsman. The port station has only one winch, used for the topping lift and a reefing line.

Bright cabins

small catamaran reddit

Bali Catsmart in four figures: 11.78 m / 38.65 ft overall length, 6.46 m / 21.19 ft beam, 8.4 tons and 99 m2 / 1065.24 ft2 of upwind sail area

The choice is yours between the Bali Catsmart and the Beneteau Excess 11, two sailboats that are very similar in terms of specifications (length, width, weight, sail area) but very different in terms of onboard experience. Two very successful concepts, each of which took their advantages to the extreme to create two very beautiful boats.

It’s up to you to choose the one that suits you best!

_____________________________

Interested in learning more about yacht ownership? Dream Yacht Sales has you covered with the widest choice of yachts and charter management programs .

Our expert yacht consultants can explain your options in depth and help you through the purchase process, from choosing a yacht that is right for you, to finding the best financing. Get in touch today !

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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)

small catamaran reddit

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

small catamaran reddit

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

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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.

small catamaran reddit

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. 

small catamaran reddit

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

small catamaran reddit

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

small catamaran reddit

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

small catamaran reddit

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.

small catamaran reddit

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

small catamaran reddit

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.

https://www.catamaransite.com/contact-enroll/

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13 Best Small Catamarans For Cruising 2024

The best small catamarans for cruising are affordable and comfortable, making great sailboats for a number of different purposes. If you’re looking for the best small catamarans to start your cruising life then look no further!

When searching for a catamaran for our adventures we scoured the internet for any and all information we could find on just about every size, shape, and model!

Although in the end, we opted for a bigger catamaran, in the hopes of having more family and friends on board, we did heavily research the best small catamarans as an option.

One of the best small catamarans for cruising out at anchor.

Each small catamaran has different pros and cons. As with every sailboat, there will be compromises, but hopefully, this post will help you firm up what you’re really looking for in a multihull and find the right smaller catamaran for you!

Here are what we consider the best small cruising catamarans out there, costing anywhere from $40,000 to $300,000. You can also read up on the average costs of sailboats here.

Why choose a small catamaran for cruising?

The downsides to small multihulls for cruisers

The best small catamarans for ocean sailing

The best small catamarans for coastal cruising

Why Choose A Small Catamaran For Cruising?

a small multihull on an ocean passage, cutting through the water.

The main advantage to choosing a small catamaran for cruising has to be the cost. Not only are smaller sailboats cheaper to buy initially, but they are also cheaper to maintain and to dock in marinas or dry storage.

Why buy a small catamaran over a monohull? This isn’t the post to go into the pros and cons of multihulls vs monohulls, but a few of the main reasons you might prefer to buy a small cat over a bigger, cheaper monohull is the living space and the comfort underway and at anchor.

Living on a sailboat is very different from taking the boat out for a sporty sail every now and again. Having a catamaran over a monohull means you won’t be heeling or rolling at anchor half as much, you can leave out your coffee cup, and you have the space you need to spread out a little.

A small catamaran will enable the more comfortable lifestyle you’re seeking at a more reasonable price tag. So what’s not to love about small cruising multihulls?

The Downsides To Small Multihulls For Cruisers

a sailboat with its sails up, goosewinged.

Of course, just with everything in sailing, there are always compromises to be made when it comes to small multihulls.

One of the biggest downsides for cruisers is the weight issue smaller catamarans present. You won’t be able to carry half as much as you would on a larger catamaran or monohull, which might be a problem if you live onboard full time.

The other negative is that smaller boats usually aren’t quite as seaworthy as larger ones. You might find you’re limited to coastal cruising if you choose a small catamaran, so make sure you have your cruising intentions in mind before you buy.

the sails of a sailboat against the blue sky.

Another big thing to look out for when it comes to choosing the right small cat for you, is the bridge deck clearance. This is often worse on smaller catamarans, and can cause nasty slamming in any sort of sea, both when sailing and at anchor.

With these downsides in mind, we’ve split this post into the best small catamarans for ocean sailing and the best for coastal cruising. Obviously this is a little subjective, as many people have sailed around the world in much smaller and less seaworthy vessels!

The Best Small Catamarans For Ocean Cruising

#1 wharram tiki.

  • Suitable for: Bluewater sailing
  • Fixed Keels
  • Draft (max): 2.08′
  • Engines: Single outboard, though some versions have twin inboards
  • Price: Roughly $100,000

small catamarans sailing with the sunset behind

We have lusted after the Wharram catamarans since our adventures began and would have opted for one of these if we had found one for sale this side of the pond.

Designed by the legendary James Wharram, these small multihulls are pretty unique. They are based on the Polynesian catamaran design, and the plans enable you to self-build these boats if you have the time, money, and space for a project of this magnitude.

If you aren’t keen on taking on a project then you can commission a boat builder to complete the design for you, or buy one second-hand. The advantages of having one made yourself are that you can tweak things to your personal taste, and you can even contact the Wharrams themselves to see if they can adjust the designs for individual requests.

The Wharram catamarans have a lot of charm dues to their traditional design, and the old-fashioned appeal continues inside the boat too. You won’t find the same huge hull space as some of the modern design catamarans now have, but the outside entertainment space is perfect for entertaining.

One of the best small multihulls for ocean cruising

These small catamarans don’t have an inside space across the hulls, so all of your inside living space is below. If you’re used to monohulls then this won’t be a problem but if you like the idea of a galley-up then these boats aren’t for you.

Wharram catamarans, especially the Tiki 38, have great reputations as around the world, bluewater boats. They have fantastic bridge deck clearance so slamming is minimum and they sail well.

Most models have a double cabin and two singles, a galley, a head, and a small salon area below. They are smaller catamarans than many newer 38ft multihulls but this does make them more affordable.

small catamarans in the Caribbean with a beautiful white sand beach behind

A big appeal for us was the fact these boats are designed to be self-made. Although a secondhand model could potentially come with a lot of problems (get a decent survey before you buy!) it does mean that almost everything onboard can be self-fixed. This is a huge bonus if you plan on sailing your small catamaran around the world.

Another thing we loved about these smaller catamarans is the fact they have outboard engines, which we felt would be easier to maintain and replace if necessary. This is a personal choice though so consider this before you get your heart set on one!

One of the downsides to the Tiki 38 is that there aren’t many of them around. These are unique boats and they don’t come on the market frequently. When they do, they tend to be scattered all over the world so you’ll have to be prepared to travel to find one!

#2 Prout Snowgoose 37 : Small Catamaran For Ocean Cruising

a sail on a cruising catamaran and the ocean in the background.

Prout catamarans are a popular choice for cruisers, and you’ll find many owners who have circumnavigated in them. The Snowgoose is no exception. Prout no longer exists as a company, as it was bought by Broadblue in the 90s.

Broadblue still makes catamarans today, and they have very similar features to the original Prouts, though obviously they are far fancier and have all the benefits of a more modern design!

The Snowgoose is a great small multihull to go for as you get quite a lot of space inside and out. We weren’t sure about the berth in the salon area, but it might make a great space for a baby or small child while underway!

The compromise in the Prout Snowgoose is the bridge deck clearance and this was something that put us off these smaller cruising catamarans. A low bridge deck clearance makes the boat slam in waves, both at anchor and underway.

#8 PDQ 36 : A Small Catamaran Without Too Much Slamming

  • Suitable for: Bluewater
  • Draft (max): 2.82′
  • Engines: Twin inboard or outboard
  • Price: Over $100,000

small catamaran reddit

These small catamarans have an excellent reputation among cruisers because of their solid build and use of decent materials. They come with either outboard engines for coastal cruising or inboard engines designed to withstand offshore use.

If you like the sound of the PDQ 32 but need a little more room then you’ve got that here! It’s also a boat that people have crossed oceans in, though you might want to consider something more tried and tested like the Prout Snowgoose or the Wharram if you’re planning longer ocean sails.

The boat has three cabins, a galley, salon and head, but there’s a more spacious feel compared to the smaller model. Again, the bridge deck clearance is good so you shouldn’t experience too much slamming.

#9 Lagoon 380 : One Of The Most Popular Small Multihulls

small catamaran reddit

  • Fixed keels
  • Engines:  twin diesel engines
  • Price:  from $100,000, used

The Lagoon 380 is one of the most popular catamarans out there, and you’ve probably already spotted a lot of them in your search! This is a great option if modern cats appeal to you, as it’s pretty ‘with the times’ as far as smaller catamarans go!

There are lots of different layouts of this boat available all over the world. Some were built for charter with numerous berths and others were commissioned for couples or families with differing cabin and head options.

This is a proven catamaran from a reputable company, but obviously with so many of these boats out there, they come in a range of conditions. Make sure you get a thorough survey done before purchase!

Lagoon 37 TPI

  • Draft (max): 4′
  • Engines: Twin inboard diesels 
  • Price: Over $100,000 USD 

This is the smallest catamaran built by Lagoon, and unfortunately there aren’t many of them out there. These boats were built mainly for the charter market, and have a smaller rig than some similar sized catamarans.

There are two big queen-size forward doubles port and starboard and a smaller double in the starboard hull aft. The galley and salon are designed to be simple and timeless, with none of the fancy trims you’ll find in the newer Lagoons.

As this boat was intended for charter it probably wouldn’t make a great ocean-going vessel. For starters, it isn’t designed to carry too much in the way of provisions. That’s not to say it won’t be a suitable bluewater boat with a few tweaks. Sailors who have circumnavigated in them have increased sail area and added folding props to get more speed from the vessel.

#11 Catalac 9M/30

small catamaran reddit

  • Draft (max): 2.5′
  • Engines:  two outboard engines or one diesel engine
  • Price:  from $50,000

The Catalac 9M is a little different to a lot of the catamarans on this list, as it was built for sailing in the North Sea! This is a great small catamaran for anyone wanting a boat built to be safe!

The bridge deck clearance is reasonable but the boat is light, which can make it more prone to slamming. The unique feature of this small sailboat is the hard dodger, designed as somewhere safe and dry to stand in bad weather.

It sails well, though like a lot of catamarans there is technique involved in getting it to tack smoothly. Once you’ve got the hang of though, this boat will make good speeds for its size.

The Best Small Catamarans For Coastal Cruising

  • Suitable for: Coastal
  • Draft (max): 3.62′
  • Engines: Twin inboard
  • Price: Up to $300,000 for a newer model

The Mahe 36 is the smallest of the Fountaine Pajot range, and these small catamarans can go for a heafty budget if you find a newer model!

This tiny multihull packs a lot into a small space, and because of its modern features, you’ll feel like you’re in a much bigger boat when you step aboard.

This boat is a fast mover, with an ok bridge clearance and some attractive upgrades compared to their last small catamaran design. Most notably the full-length hard top bimini which has the reviewers raving!

If you have the money to splash out on a newer, more expensive small catamaran then this should definitely be on your list to consider! Although they come with a large price tag, these small catamarans are considerably cheaper new than some of the bigger models.

#4 Gemini 105Mc (34ft)

small catamaran reddit

Suitable for: Coastal cruising Centreboards Draft (max): 5′ Engines:  Single inboard Price:  from $80,000

The Gemini 105Mc is still in production in the US, which speaks to its popularity. Obviously if you buy new you’ll pay a much higher price! This is one of the smallest catamarans on the list, but it’s still a great option for coastal cruising (or some have even successfully completed ocean passages on them in relative comfort).

For a small multihull this boat sails pretty well and is fast for a coastal cruiser. The living space is decent with good headroom. It has two double cabins and a master bedroom, and the interior finishes are nice too.

A big negative to this boat is the bridge deck clearance which really isn’t amazing, but as we said at the start, there’s always a compromise! This is a sporty-looking little catamaran that’s a good contender for the top smallest catamarans out there!

#5 EndeavourCat 36

Suitable for: Coastal cruising Fixed keels Draft (max): 3′ Engines:  two inboard Price:  from $100

small catamaran reddit

Designed and built by Endeavour Catamaran, these American built boats are great cruising catamarans. A big advantage to this little multihull is that it will fit into most monohull slips, so if you anticipate using marinas a lot then this might be the small catamaran for you!

This isn’t a slow boat, and owners report speeds of 8-9 knots. Bear in mind though that the narrow beam does make it less suitable for any offshore passages. It has good interior space with 6′ standing headroom throughout, three double cabins, and a decent-sized galley below. The salon area can seat 6 people comfortably.

This cat is great for single-handed sailors, as all the lines lead to the cockpit and the main and jib are completely self-tacking.

#6 Prout Event 34

small catamaran reddit

Suitable for: Coastal/bluewater Fixed keels Draft (max): 2.72′ Engines:  Single inboard Price:  from $30,000

These multihulls are quite hard to find, but if you like the Snowgoose but are on a tighter budget then they might be just what you’re looking for. They share lots of features with the Snowgoose and look very similar, only smaller!

There are three cabins, one head, a salon, and a galley, only they are rather squeezed in compared to the larger model. Personally, we thought there was plenty of space for a smaller sailboat but it’s worth seeing them in person if you’re keen on this model.

They do have the same downsides as the Snowgoose though, with limited headroom and low bridge deck clearance. These boats are known for their slamming!

Coastal Engines:  twin outboards Price:  from $80,000, used

small catamaran reddit

The PDQ 32 is a great budget option catamaran and should be cheap(ish) to buy second hand and maintain. With two outboards that are easy to replace on a smaller budget, you’re looking at some of the usual pinch points on a boat becoming a lot more affordable!

This small catamaran only has two cabins, so sleeps less than a lot of the boats on this list, but it is roomier than you’d imagine inside with a decent galley and salon area. It has decent bridge deck clearance so shouldn’t slam too much in any waves.

This isn’t a boat for longer passages as it is a little small (and perhaps underpowered) to face serious weather. If you’re searching for something to potter around in then this is a fun boat to sail and live in!

#12 Dean 365

small catamaran reddit

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  • Suitable for: Coastal cruising
  • Draft (max): 3′
  • Engines:  one or two inboard
  • Price:  from $45,000, used

These South African catamarans are great little coastal cruising catamarans that are hard to come by anywhere other than South Africa!

They’re pretty tiny, but have enough space for a galley, 3 or 4 cabins, and 1 or 2 heads. Some of the designs even have a bathtub, which speaks of their liveaboard suitability rather than their sail performance!

These boats are some of the smallest multihulls on this list, so don’t expect much in terms of headroom or bridge deck clearance. That being said, if you’re looking for a tiny catamaran to live on and you are prepared to compromise on sailing ability then these are a solid choice.

We have heard that the build quality can vary somewhat with these multihulls, so make sure you do some solid research and get a good surveyor when buying one of these. If you get a good version then they can make really solid boats.

#13 EndeavourCat 30

the lines of small catamarans tied off to a cleat

Suitable for: Coastal cruising Fixed keels Draft (max): 2.1′ Engines:  single or twin outboard Price:  from $70,000

This is a boat built for comfort over all else, so if you’re looking for a budget catamaran to live in then take a look at the endeavourcat 30. Some people don’t like the boxy design, but we quite liked how it looked in the water. I guess it’s personal taste!

This sailboat has two double cabins, a decent sized galley and salon for the size of the boat, and a head. The bridge deck clearance is low so that’s something to bear in mind before you buy, but the headroom is good (another reason why this would make a good liveaboard catamaran).

Hopefully this has given you some inspiration when searching for small catamarans for cruising, and helped you to find your dream boat!

We’re passionate about helping people live this incredible cruising lifestyle, so if you’re planning your dream liveaboard life make sure you check out our guide on how to run away to sea, with everything you could possibly need to know before, during, and after starting this adventure of a lifetime!

small catamaran reddit

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Such small mention of probably the best catamaran for overall cruising, focusing on ease of helming, speed and livability. Simple rig, great ergonomic features, style and definitely a pedigree on the water. The FP Mahe duo! Sea proven. Most delivered on their own bottoms from France. Wide beams and light. Beautiful interior arrangements and easy to maintain. I’m confused about so little mention of probably the best entry level and beyond real cruiser out there.

You forgot the edelcat 35. Great boats, and have circumnavigated!

I wonder why Broadblue 346 is not on the list.

Appreciate it’s a bit more expensive than most cats listed here but what about the Aventura 37? Technically a small cat but with ocean going abilities and an actual live aboard!

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small catamaran reddit

15 Small Liveaboard Catamarans

small catamaran reddit

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If you want to live on the sea, catamarans are probably the most comfortable way of doing it. Unlike monohulls, catamarans have two hulls, giving you a smooth sailing experience and more interior space. There are tons of small catamarans, each with its pros and cons.  

The smallest cruising/liveaboard sailing catamaran is the Smart Cat S280. With a length overall of 27.9 feet (8.5 meters), it offers the most economical and spacious living area you can find on any liveaboard catamaran today. 

In this article, I’ll talk about the Smart Cat S280, and then ill show you alternatives. This article is meant to give you examples of boats that might be interesting and it’s a jumping-off point for further research into what suits you the best.

Table of Contents

How To Pick a Small Catamaran

Small catamarans are great if you’re on a budget. They’re also ideal if you want a modest space without too much going on inside. However, every small-size catamaran varies in features and design. So, if you’re looking for one, there are a few essential factors you have to bear in mind.  

Performance

When choosing a catamaran , your decision depends on what level of performance you need from the boat. Your choice will often come from what you’re going to use the boat for. 

However, the performance of a catamaran is a critical factor for safety as well. For example, the sail plan significantly affects the catamaran’s stability offshore.

Some performance features you have to keep in mind when choosing a catamaran include:

  • Average Speed upwind and downwind
  • How much weight can be loaded before performance is impacted

Interior Layout

Despite their size, small catamarans come with a variety of living spaces. In between the hulls, you’ll find different types of amenities, including a kitchen, lounge, and dining area.  

Every catamaran comes with a unique arrangement for its cabins. Usually, you’ll also have cabins in the two hulls and sometimes a master cabin on the deck. The deck may also have a sitting space with trampoline areas to relax.

The cabins on a catamaran are sometimes referred to as berths. Manufacturers modify one or two berths to make a bathroom with a toilet and showerhead or “head.”

Exterior Design

The interior features are essential because they determine not only your living condition while onboard but also how easily the boat can be sailed, are all lines drawn to the cockpit?

Now that we know how to choose sailing catamarans, let’s look at the smallest liveaboard catamarans on the market today, starting with the most compact one.

Smart Cat S280: The Smallest Liveaboard Catamaran

The Smart Cat S280 is the smallest catamaran on the market today. The Korean-made catamaran offers a mix of space, shallow sailing, and affordability.

At the 2020 Miami Boat Show, the starting price of the Smart Cat S280 was $149,900.

It runs on a 19.8 Yamaha HorsePower engine with a 50 Horse Power option. Depending on your location, you can drop down or lift the engine out of the water. It holds a 102-liter (26.94-gallon) fuel tank and a 135-liter (35.66-gallon) water tank. 

The open hard-top version is ideal for summer sailing and boat parties. The cat is also available in a closed “house” version, allowing more privacy and climate protection. 

The boat features three queen-sized berths, office space, and a kitchen area. It has two living configurations:

  • Three cabins and one head
  • Two cabins and two heads

Each cabin berth has a double-sized bed. The bathroom contains a sink, a head and handheld shower, and an electric toilet. The wide lounge area with two trampolines can accommodate at least four seating positions. It also contains a drop-down anchor with an electric windlass.

The interior is fitted with broad windows and drop-down blinds, cabinet lockers, tour-size hanging closets, and LED step lights to guide you when lights are dim. It also has an 18,000 BTU air conditioning system controlled from the inside. The ceiling has a vinyl finishing, an upgrade from the carpet fabric finishing in previous models.

The kitchen space comes with storage cabinets, a DC 12 V 50-liter (13.2-gallon) refrigerator, enclosed refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, electric stove burner, and a sink. It is wired with a Fusion audio system that includes two speakers.

The Smart Cat S280 supplies hot water to the kitchen and bathroom, thanks to an AC 120 V 6-gallon water heater. The head floor is wooden, while the cockpit has a patterned Seadek floor. 

The boat has a VHF radio, a Garmin sail pack navigation package, and a Garmin GPS Chart Plotter. It also includes wind speed and direction equipment, a depth sounder, and a compass. The rigging is performed with a steering wheel.

Specifications

The dimensions of the Smart Cat S280 are:

Max Bridge Clearance46.2 feet (14.08 meters)
Max Draft2.82 feet (0.85 meters)
Beam17.4 feet (5.3 meters)
Length Overall27.9 feet (8.5 meters)
Weight4.5 tons (4,500 kg)

The Smart Cat S280 has made its mark as the ideal small-size cruise cat. However, there are other options on the market.

Other Small Sailing Catamarans

The Dean 365 is suitable for cruising coastal grounds. Made by Dean Catamarans in South Africa, it is 36 feet (10.97 meters) long with single or twin diesel engines. It can be configured to have four cabins and one showerhead or three cabins and two showerheads.

At $50,000, it features:

  • A 3-foot draft (0.91 meters)
  • A mast height of 46 feet (14.02 meters)
  • A Fixed Keels underbody
  • Weight of 6 tons (5,443.1 kg)
  • Speed of 6 to 7 knots
  • A beam of 17.7 feet (5.39 meters)

The Gemini 105 is one of the flagship boats of Gemini Catamarans. Initially manufactured in Maryland, the compact cat is now made in Florida. It’s 33 feet (10.05 meters) long with a layout of three cabins and one head.

Costing around $100,000, it contains:

  • Mast height of 47 feet (14.32 meters)
  • Maximum draft height of 5 feet (1.52 meters)
  • One diesel engine
  • Centerboards underbody
  • A beam of 14 feet (4.26 meters)
  • Speed of 8 knots
  • Weight of 4.8 tons (4,800 kg)

At 36 feet (10.97 meters), the Mahe 36 has two inboard diesel engines with sail drives. It contains three cabins and one head, or two cabins and two heads. 

Commonly found in the Caribbean, it costs about $300,000 and comes with:

  • A maximum draft height of 3.6 feet (1.09 meters)
  • Mast height of 55 feet (16.76 meters)
  • Fixed Keels underbody
  • A beam of 19.4 feet (5.91 meters)
  • A weight of 5.5 tons (4,989.52 kg)
  • A speed of 7 to 11 knots

Endeavor 36

The Endeavor 36 is a three-cabin catamaran commonly found in the United States coastal areas. This catamaran was made for easy handling and comfort. It is powered by twin diesel engines and costs about $100,000. 

It is 36 feet (10.97 meters) long and features:

  • A mast height of 47 feet (14.32 meters)
  • A maximum draft of 2.75 feet (0.84 meters)
  • An underbody of Fixed Keels
  • A beam of 15 feet (4.57 meters)
  • A speed of up to 8 knots

This catamaran is 37 feet (11.27 meters) long with an interior layout of four cabins. Running on twin diesel engines, it costs about $150,000. 

It also has:

  • A maximum draft height of 3.35 feet (1.02 meters)
  • A mast height of 55 feet (16.76 meters)
  • A beam of 19.68 feet (5.99 meters)
  • A fixed Keels underbody
  • A weight of 4.5 tons (4,500 kg)
  • A speed of up to 11 knots

Seawind 1000

The Seaweed 1000 is an Australian-made catamaran that is 37 feet (11.27 meters) long. It’s ideal for bluewater cruising with four cabins, one head, and a twin gas outboard engine. 

It costs over $150,000 and features:

  • A maximum draft height of 3.2 feet (0.97 meters)
  • A beam of 19.42 feet (5.92 meters)
  • A weight of 4 tons (4,000 kg)
  • A speed of 4.5 knots

PDQ 36 Capella

Designed by Alan Slater, the PDQ 36 Capella is a 36-foot (10.97 meter) long catamaran that costs around $100,000. Its engines can be single or twin gas outboard. It can also run on a twin diesel inboard engine. It contains two or three cabins and one or two heads. 

Some of its other features include:

  • A maximum draft height of 2.8 feet (0.85 meters)
  • A maximum mast height of 47 feet (14.32 meters)
  • A beam of 18.25 feet (5.56 meters)
  • A speed of 7 knots

Lagoon 37 TPI

The Lagoon 37 TPI is 37 feet (11.27 meter) long and costs over $100,000. It is a rare classic catamaran with three or four cabins and two heads. It uses two inboard diesel engines. 

  • A maximum draft height of 4 feet (1.21 meters)
  • A speed of 7 to 14 knots
  • A beam of 20.17 feet (6.15 meters)
  • A weight of 5.3 tons (5,300 kg)

This catamaran is 29.25 feet (8.92 meters) long, making it one of the smallest and most affordable on this list. With either a single gas outboard engine or twin inboard diesel engines, it’s an excellent catamaran for sailing the North Sea. 

It costs about $50,000, and features:

  • A tabernacle mast
  • A mast height of 54.5 feet (16.61 meters)
  • A draft of 3.33 feet (1.02 meters)

Prout 37 Snowgoose

The Prout 37 Snowgoose is 37 feet (11.27 meters) long and came after the Prout 35. It’s a great choice for bluewater sailing with three cabins and one head. They cost about $100,000 and run on a single outdrive engine, although some rare models have twin inboard engines. 

They also contain:

  • A maximum draft of 2.08 feet (0.63 meters)
  • A mast height of 40 feet (12.19 meters)
  • A weight of 5.5 tons (5,500 kg)
  • A draft of 3 feet (0.91 meters)
  • A beam of 6.25 feet (1.91 meters)

The Lagoon 380 is a bluewater catamaran that runs on twin diesel engines. Its price is $100,000, and it measures 37 feet (11.27 meters) in length. The boat launched in 1999 and is primarily found in Europe and the United States.

Some of its features include:

  • Two or three cabins and two heads
  • A mast height of 56.1 feet (17.09 meters)
  • A maximum draft of 3.83 feet (1.17 meters)
  • A beam of 21.42 feet (6.53 meters)
  • A speed of up to 10 knots
  • A weight of 7.1 tons (7,100 kg)

Prout Event 34

The Prout Event 34 looks just like the Snowgoose, although the latter is slightly bigger. It has two diesel engines that can support bluewater sailing. At 34 feet (10.36 meters), it costs nearly $30,000. 

The Prout Event 34’s interior includes three berths, one head, and office space. This catamaran is not commonly found worldwide, though a few can be located on European and American coastlines. 

It contains:

  • Maximum draft height of 2.72 feet (0.82 meters)
  • Mast height of 30.25 feet (9.22 meters)
  • A beam of 15.7 feet (4.78 meters)
  • A speed of 7 to 9 knots

Endeavor 30

The Endeavor 30 is 30 feet (9.14 meters) long with two cabins, a galley, a dining area, and two heads. Manufactured by Florida-based Endeavor Catamaran Corporation, the $80,000 catamaran has:

  • Sails that reach 7.5 knots
  • Mast height of 48 feet (14.63 meters)
  • Maximum draft of 2.83 feet (0.86 meters)
  • Headroom of 6.33 feet (1.93 meters)
  • A beam of 14.5 feet (4.42 meters)
  • A weight of 3.5 tons (3,500 kg)

Maine Cat 30

The Maine Cat 30 is a 30-foot (9.14 meters) long catamaran that costs over $100,000. It features a 26-gallon fuel tank and a 63-gallon (286.4 liter) freshwater tank. It has three double berths and one single berth.

The Maine Cat 30 contains:

  • A weight of 3 tons (3,000 kg)
  • 18-foot beam (5.48 meters)
  • Maximum draft of 5 feet (1.52 meters)
  • A speed of 5.5 to 6.5 knots
  • A mast height of 48 feet (14.63 meters)

Key Takeaways

The smallest liveaboard catamaran, the Smart Cat S280, is 27.9 feet (8.5 meters) long. However, numerous other options are available if you are looking for a small liveaboard catamaran.

Each of these options comes with different interior designs, exterior features, and performance specifications, so look at all your options to pick the best one for you!

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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🎧Small Catamarans for Cruisers

Published on July 27, 2024 ; last updated on July 21, 2024 by Carolyn Shearlock

Catamarans make great cruising vessels. And if you stay on the small side, they can even be affordable. Here are 10 to consider.

Cruising Catamarans for Sale  

Prefer to Read? Check out 10 Small Catamaran for Cruisers .

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Small Catamaran Sailboats: The Perfect Choice for Sailing Enthusiasts

by Emma Sullivan | Aug 4, 2023 | Sailboat Gear and Equipment

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Short answer small catamaran sailboats:

Small catamaran sailboats are compact, twin-hulled boats designed for sailing. With their lightweight build and manageable size, they are ideal for recreational use or racing. These boats offer excellent stability, speed, and maneuverability, making them popular among beginners and experienced sailors alike.

Small Catamaran Sailboats: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction: Are you a beginner looking to venture into the world of sailing ? If so, small catamaran sailboats may just be your perfect entry point! Designed with stability and ease of handling in mind, these nimble vessels offer an exhilarating sailing experience for novices. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various aspects of small catamarans and help you embark on your exciting journey as a sailor. So, let’s hoist the sails and set off!

1. Why Choose Small Catamaran Sailboats? A catamaran is a multi-hulled vessel consisting of two parallel hulls connected by a deck or trampoline. Small catamarans are an ideal choice for beginners due to their inherent stability compared to monohulls. The wider beam provides superior balance and prevents tipping over, giving novice sailors greater confidence during their initial learning phases.

2. Sailing Benefits: One of the major advantages of small catamarans is their ability to sail in shallow waters where larger vessels cannot venture. By virtue of their reduced draft, these agile boats can explore secluded coves, hidden beaches, and even navigate through narrow channels with ease, providing an exclusive experience that other yachts may envy.

3. Easy Maneuverability: Small catamarans boast excellent maneuverability owing to their twin-hull design. Their lightweight construction coupled with responsive steering enables beginners to easily tack and jibe without much effort or fear of capsizing. This agility allows aspiring sailors to gain confidence swiftly while honing essential skills required for advanced sailing .

4.High Speed Potential: Don’t be fooled by their size – small catamarans can pack quite a punch! With efficient hydrodynamic designs and reduced drag in comparison to heavier monohulls, these vessels are capable of reaching impressive speeds even with modest wind conditions. Feel the thrill as you race across the water , carving smooth paths that leave others in awe.

5. Safety Features: Safety is paramount for beginners, and small catamarans are equipped with numerous features to ensure your peace of mind while out at sea . The dual hulls provide redundancy and enhance stability, minimizing the risk of capsizing. Additionally, most modern catamarans incorporate unsinkable design elements such as foam-filled hulls or watertight compartments, providing an extra layer of security that novice sailors can rely on.

6. Versatility: Small catamaran sailboats are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various activities beyond pleasure cruising. Whether you’re looking to engage in recreational sailing, learn racing techniques, embark on weekend adventures with family and friends, or even take up day chartering opportunities – these vessels offer endless possibilities to explore your passion for sailing.

7. Maintenance and Storage: Maintaining a small catamaran is relatively straightforward compared to larger yachts. With fewer systems and components to manage, novices can quickly grasp the basics of boat care. Moreover, their size allows for effortless storage options – from fitting into standard boat slips or beaching on shallow shorelines to easily towing them behind your vehicle if required.

Conclusion: When setting sail on a new adventure as a beginner sailor, don’t overlook the immense potential offered by small catamaran sailboats. These stable and maneuverable vessels provide an outstanding platform for learning and enjoying all aspects of sailing while ensuring safety remains a top priority throughout your journey. So hop aboard a small catamaran today and unlock boundless horizons in the dynamic world of sailing!

How to Choose the Perfect Small Catamaran Sailboat: A Step-by-Step Process

Choosing the perfect small catamaran sailboat can be an exhilarating yet challenging task. With so many options available in the market, it’s essential to go through a step-by-step process to ensure you make a wise and informed decision. In this blog post, we will guide you through this process in a detailed, professional, witty, and clever manner.

Step 1: Determine your usage requirements Firstly, it’s important to define how you intend to use your catamaran sailboat . Are you planning on leisurely day sailing or embarking on exciting multi-day voyages? Knowing your intended usage will help narrow down the list of suitable options.

Step 2: Consider budget constraints Secondly, set a realistic budget for yourself. Catamaran sailboats can range from affordable options to high-end luxurious vessels. By determining your budget early on, you’ll avoid falling in love with a boat that is far beyond what you can afford.

Step 3: Assess space requirements Next, evaluate how much space you need on your catamaran sailboat . Consider factors such as the number of passengers you plan to accommodate, sleeping arrangements, storage capacity for equipment and supplies, and other amenities like galley facilities or a bathroom. This assessment will help determine an appropriate size for your boat.

Step 4: Research different designs and manufacturers Now that you have established your requirements and budgetary limits, it’s time to delve into extensive research. Look into various designs and manufacturers available in the market. Pay attention to their reputation for quality craftsmanship, durability, resale value, and customer reviews.

Step 5: Visit boat shows or dealerships To truly immerse yourself in the world of catamarans sailboats and gain hands-on experience of different models firsthand – visit boat shows or dealership showrooms near you. This allows you to explore various boats up close; carefully inspecting features like deck layout, rigging systems, storage compartments, and cockpit ergonomics.

Step 6: Take sea trials Sea trials are indispensable when it comes to buying a small catamaran sailboat. It’s highly recommended to get on board and experience the boat in action before committing to a purchase. This will give you a better understanding of sailing characteristics, stability, maneuverability, and overall performance.

Step 7: Engage with the sailing community Engaging with the sailing community can be immensely helpful during your decision-making process. Reach out on online forums or attend local catamaran sailing events to gather insights from experienced sailors who own similar boats. Their firsthand knowledge and witty anecdotes can offer valuable perspectives that may otherwise be overlooked.

Step 8: Consult with experts or hire a surveyor If you still find yourself uncertain after going through all these steps, consider consulting with industry experts or hiring a professional surveyor. These individuals possess extensive knowledge and experience in catamarans sailboats and can provide expert advice tailored to your specific needs.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect small catamaran sailboat requires careful consideration of your usage requirements, budget constraints, space needs, research on designs/manufacturers, attending boat shows/taking sea trials, engaging with the sailing community, and seeking professional guidance if necessary. By following this step-by-step process in a witty and clever manner outlined above – you’ll undoubtedly find the ideal vessel that meets both your functional criteria and invokes unadulterated joy as you set sail into new adventures !

Sailing on Small Catamarans: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Answered

Are you considering embarking on a sailing adventure on a small catamaran? We understand that you may have some burning questions before setting sail into the unknown. Fear not, as we have compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and provided detailed, professional, witty, and clever explanations to help ease your mind and prepare you for an unforgettable experience.

Question 1: What is a small catamaran?

Answer: A small catamaran is a type of sailboat with two parallel hulls connected by a deck or trampoline-like structure. Unlike larger catamarans used for luxury cruising, small catamarans are typically designed for recreational purposes, racing, or day trips. They offer stability, maneuverability, and great speed capabilities due to their lightweight nature.

Question 2: How does sailing on a small catamaran differ from other sailboats?

Answer: Sailing on a small catamaran offers several advantages over traditional single-hulled boats. Firstly, the dual-hull design provides increased stability in rough waters, minimizing the chances of capsizing. Secondly, they can often maneuver more easily thanks to their twin engines or outboard motors . Lastly, small catamarans tend to be faster due to reduced drag in the water and decreased weight compared to monohulls.

Question 3: Is it hard to learn how to sail on a small catamaran?

Answer: Learning how to sail on any vessel requires time and practice. However, many beginners find that sailing on a small catamaran is easier than starting with larger boats. Their stable platform makes it less challenging for newcomers to maintain balance while mastering basic sailing techniques such as tacking and jibing. Additionally, the smaller size allows for quicker responsiveness when adjusting sails or changing direction.

Question 4: Can I go solo or do I need a crew?

Answer: While sailing solo is possible on a small catamaran, it is recommended to have at least one other person onboard for safety reasons. Having an extra pair of hands helps with tasks such as raising and lowering sails, anchoring, and navigating. Furthermore, having someone to share the experience with adds enjoyment to the adventure. However, for more experienced sailors, solo excursions can be an exhilarating challenge.

Question 5: What safety measures should I take when sailing on a small catamaran?

Answer: Safety should always be a top priority when out on the water. Before setting sail , ensure that all required safety equipment is onboard, including life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and communication devices. Familiarize yourself with weather conditions and tides before departing. It’s also wise to let someone ashore know your intended route and estimated time of return. Diving into emergency procedures and learning basic first aid skills are essential as well.

Question 6: Can I go overnight or on extended trips on a small catamaran?

Answer: While some smaller catamarans are designed for overnight trips or even have basic sleeping accommodations, most are best suited for day trips or weekend adventures due to limited space and amenities. However, if you are prepared for minimalistic living arrangements and have planned accordingly for provisions and storage space limitations, longer journeys can certainly be undertaken.

Question 7: Are there any drawbacks to sailing on small catamarans ?

Answer: Despite the plethora of benefits small catamarans offer, there are a few drawbacks worth considering. These vessels tend to have less interior cabin space compared to monohulls or larger catamarans meant for cruising purposes. Limited storage capacity may require careful planning when packing supplies or personal items. Lastly, while they excel in calm waters, small catamarans may not handle heavy weather conditions quite as well as larger vessels.

Now armed with these detailed, professional, witty, and clever explanations to the most common FAQs about sailing on small catamarans, you can confidently make preparations for your upcoming adventure. Embrace the thrill of navigating the open waters and enjoy the unparalleled experience that awaits you on a small catamaran!

Exploring the Advantages of Small Catamaran Sailboats

In the vast world of sailing, there is an abundance of choices when it comes to selecting a sailboat. From sleek monohulls to luxurious catamarans, the options seem endless. However, today we want to shine a spotlight on a particular type of sailboat that has been gaining popularity in recent years – small catamaran sailboats.

A small catamaran sailboat offers numerous advantages that make it a standout choice for sailors of all levels. Here, we will dive deep into these advantages and explore why more and more sailing enthusiasts are opting for this unique vessel.

Stability is perhaps the most significant advantage that small catamaran sailboats bring to the table. Unlike monohulls which tend to heel over in strong winds or choppy waters, catamarans remain remarkably steady due to their twin hull design. This stability ensures a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience even when faced with challenging conditions. For those prone to seasickness or families with young children, this trait alone can make all the difference between an enjoyable day on the water and an unpleasant one.

Another advantage worth mentioning is speed. Small catamarans are known for their impressive acceleration capabilities and high speeds, thanks again to their twin hulls. As wind gusts push against both hulls simultaneously, catamarans glide effortlessly through the water without much heeling or resistance. This enables them to reach exhilarating speeds that traditional monohull sailboats often struggle to achieve.

The spaciousness offered by small catamaran sailboats cannot be understated either. With two separate hulls connected by a spacious deck area in-between, there is ample room for lounging, sunbathing, and socializing with friends and family onboard. The open layout makes it easy for everyone on board to find their own space while still being able to interact with others at any given time – truly bringing people together in harmony with nature.

Versatility is another key advantage of small catamaran sailboats. The shallow draft of these vessels allows them to easily navigate in shallower waters, bringing their sailors closer to pristine secluded beaches and hidden coves that may be inaccessible to larger boats. Additionally, their nimble size makes it easier to maneuver in confined spaces like crowded marinas or tight docking spots where monohulls often face difficulties.

Moreover, small catamarans are known for their fuel efficiency. With twin hulls that glide effortlessly through the water, they require less energy to move forward compared to monohull sailboats. This not only reduces fuel consumption but also contributes to lower maintenance costs and a smaller carbon footprint – an essential factor in today’s environmentally conscious world.

In conclusion, exploring the advantages of small catamaran sailboats leaves us impressed with the plethora of benefits they offer – stability, speed, spaciousness, versatility, and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor seeking thrilling adventures or a family looking for a comfortable and steady sailing experience, the small catamaran sailboat is undoubtedly worth considering for your next adventure on the open seas. So why not indulge yourself in this exciting alternative and set sail on new horizons with a magnificent small catamaran?

Beginner-Friendly Tips and Tricks for Handling Small Catamarans

Are you ready to explore the open waters and experience the thrill of sailing on a small catamaran? Whether you are a complete novice or have some sailing experience, handling a small catamaran can be an exhilarating adventure. To make this journey easier for beginners, we have compiled a list of tips and tricks that will help you maneuver your vessel with confidence. So, grab your sail and get ready to embark on this exciting voyage!

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Basics: Before setting sail, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the basic components of a small catamaran. This includes understanding how the sails work , knowing how to make adjustments using the lines and sheets, and being aware of safety equipment onboard.

2. Choose Calm Waters for Your First Outing: As a beginner, it is advisable to choose calm waters for your initial sailing experiences. Find areas such as lakes or sheltered bays where there are minimal waves and currents. This will provide you with better control over your catamaran and allow you to focus on honing your skills without unnecessary challenges.

3. Master Tacking and Jibing Techniques: Tacking and jibing are fundamental maneuvers in sailing that involve changing the direction of your boat against the wind. Understanding these techniques will enable you to navigate efficiently throughout your journey while maintaining stability in various wind conditions.

4. Pay Attention to Weight Distribution: Small catamarans are sensitive vessels when it comes to weight distribution. As a rule of thumb, position yourself along with any crew members towards the center of the boat whenever possible. This helps maintain balance and prevents capsizing or tipping over in gusty winds.

5. Learn How to Read Weather Conditions: Weather plays a significant role in sailing; therefore, learning how to read weather conditions becomes imperative for any sailor. Keep an eye on weather forecasts before heading out and pay attention to cloud formations, wind direction, and sudden changes in the atmosphere. This information will help you plan your sail and foresee any potential risks.

6. Practice Safety Precautions: Safety should always be your utmost priority while sailing. Make sure to equip yourself with proper safety gear including life jackets, a first aid kit, and signaling devices . Additionally, familiarize yourself with important safety procedures such as how to handle a man overboard situation or what to do in case of unexpected bad weather.

7. Take Sailing Lessons or Join a Sailing Club: If you are serious about becoming an accomplished catamaran sailor, consider taking sailing lessons from a certified instructor or joining a local sailing club. These resources provide valuable guidance, tips, and opportunities to learn from experienced sailors who can offer support and expertise during your journey.

8. Embrace Beginners’ Challenges: Sailing is an adventure that involves continuous learning and growth. As a beginner, it’s crucial to accept challenges that may arise during your early sailing experiences with grace and patience. Don’t be disheartened if things don’t go smoothly at first; instead, take each setback as an opportunity for improvement.

9. Enjoy the Journey! Last but not least, remember to enjoy every moment on the water! Sailing on a small catamaran opens up new horizons where you can witness breathtaking views, connect with nature, and experience the freedom that comes with being out on open waters. Soak in the tranquility of this unique sport while constantly striving to enhance your skills.

In conclusion, handling small catamarans can be an incredible experience for beginners who are willing to embrace the challenges that come along with it. By following these tips and tricks – familiarizing yourself with the basics, choosing calm waters for practice sessions, mastering key maneuvers like tacking and jibing – you’ll soon find yourself confidently navigating through any sailing adventure that awaits you. Remember to prioritize safety at all times while enjoying the thrill and beauty that this exhilarating sport has to offer. Happy sailing!

Embark on Adventurous Journeys with Small Catamaran Sailboats

Small catamaran sailboats offer a thrilling and exhilarating way to embark on adventurous journeys that will leave you with unforgettable memories. These incredibly versatile vessels provide a unique sailing experience, combining speed, stability, and maneuverability in one package. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a newcomer to the world of sailing, small catamaran sailboats are perfect for exploring uncharted waters and discovering hidden gems.

One of the most enticing qualities of small catamaran sailboats is their ability to navigate through shallow waters. With a shallow draft and two hulls, these vessels can venture into areas that are inaccessible to larger boats. This opens up a whole new world of exploration opportunities, allowing you to discover secluded coves, pristine beaches, and remote islands that are off-the-beaten-path.

Furthermore, small catamarans provide an excellent platform for water-based activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and even paddleboarding. They offer ample deck space to store equipment and ensure that you have everything you need for your adventurous endeavors. Picture yourself diving into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life or casting your fishing line into untouched fishing grounds – all made possible by the agility of a small catamaran sailboat.

The speed capabilities of small catamarans also add an element of excitement to your journey. Unlike traditional monohull sailboats, which rely solely on wind power for propulsion, catamarans can reach impressive speeds by harnessing both wind and wave power . Imagine gliding effortlessly over the water at high speeds while experiencing the sheer thrill of sailing – it’s a sensation unlike any other!

Another advantage of small catamarans is their outstanding stability on the water . The twin hull design provides exceptional balance and minimizes rolling movements caused by waves or winds. This makes them ideal for those who may be prone to seasickness or those looking for a comfortable sailing experience .

In addition to their practicality and performance, small catamaran sailboats also offer a spacious and comfortable interior. Unlike their larger counterparts, these vessels typically have a cozy cabin that can accommodate overnight stays. So why not plan an overnight adventure and wake up to the sound of waves gently lapping against your hull? It’s an experience that truly connects you with the natural world .

Lastly, small catamarans are known for their eco-friendly nature. With growing concerns about environmental sustainability, these sailboats provide a greener alternative to motorized boats . By harnessing wind power , you contribute to reducing carbon emissions and leave a smaller ecological footprint on your journeys.

So whether you are seeking thrilling escapades or peaceful exploration, small catamaran sailboats offer endless possibilities for adventurers like yourself. Unleash your inner explorer and set sail on one of these incredible vessels – embark on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, beauty, and incredible experiences. Get ready to create lifelong memories as you navigate uncharted waters with the wind in your sails!

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Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Catamarans are an excellent choice for living on the water. Modern catamarans are more spacious than monohulls and provide all the comforts of home.

In this article, we'll cover five of the best liveaboard catamarans available on the new and used market today. We'll also cover how to choose the best and most comfortable catamaran to live aboard.

The best liveaboard catamarans are the Manta 42, the Nautitech 44, the Voyage 44, the Privilege 435, the Elba 35, and the Lagoon 380. These vessels are seaworthy, comfortable, and ideal for long-term living.

We sourced the technical specifications of these vessels from maritime records and directly from sailboat manufacturers. We also considered the opinions of sailors who live aboard these vessels and others.

Table of contents

Living on a Catamaran

Living on a catamaran has both advantages and disadvantages when compared to living on a monohull sailboat. That said, most of the challenges of living aboard a catamaran are mitigated on larger and higher-quality vessels.

Catamarans feature two hulls placed side-by-side and connected by a deck. As a result, the cabins are split between the two hulls, and you may have to go outside to get to the other cabin. Thankfully, most modern cruising catamarans have a center cockpit that connects the two hulls and often features living spaces.

Some vessels have facilities (such as the galley and table) in one cabin and sleeping areas in the other. However, some catamarans have sleeping and cooking facilities in both hulls. The configuration you choose depends on how many people attended live aboard and what layout you prefer.

Catamarans offer superior stability and motion comfort, which is a big advantage when living aboard. Overall, conditions under sail and in the harbor are likely much better aboard a properly-proportioned catamaran.

How to Choose a Liveaboard Catamaran

What qualities make a catamaran ideal for living aboard, and how do you choose the best boat? Attributes such as size and interior layout are the most important, but others such as fit and finish and seakeeping abilities should also be considered.

The best liveaboard catamarans range in size between 30 and 50 feet, width 40 feet being the comfortable average. In general, vessels smaller than 30 feet simply lack the space to include a practical interior layout.

Interior Layout

Interior layout is largely a matter of personal opinion. The most popular liveaboard catamaran features a spacious center cockpit with access to both hulls. Master bedrooms are often found in the stern and the bow of each hull, with heads in between and a galley in the center cockpit. Some catamarans feature one or more additional settees, along with storage in all areas.

Tech and Convenience

The majority of monohull sailboats were produced between the 1960s in the 1980s. This isn't the case for catamarans, as their popularity is more recent. As a result, you're likely to find considerably more modern amenities aboard. Everything from autopilot systems to bathtubs are available aboard newer catamarans.

How Much does a Liveaboard Catamaran Cost?

Catamaran prices vary widely based on age, length, and overall quality. Older vessels cost anywhere between $30,000 and $100,000. Newer and more comfortable liveaboard catamarans generally start above the $100,000 mark and extend up to $500,000 or more.

Best Catamarans to Live On

We chose the following six liveaboard catamarans based on size, interior amenities, handling, and price. These vessels are popular amongst liveaboard sailors and make exceptionally comfortable floating homes both in port and at sea.

1. Manta 42

{{boat-info="/boats/manta-42"}}

The first vessel on our list is an exceptional cruising catamaran that's also a comfortable place to live. The Manta 42 can be found on the used market, and it features great handling and a spacious cabin.

Unlike most catamarans, which are built overseas, the Manta 42 was produced entirely in the United States. The Florida-based company produced these vessels in the 1990s and 2000s, and they proved extremely popular with offshore cruisers.

The Manta 42 is known for its stability, hull strength, and speed. However, its cabin layout is also smart and livable. Most Manta 42s feature an asymmetrical cabin layout. The cabin has two heads located in convenient places; one on the port side across from a master berth and one on the starboard side, which is easily accessible from the cockpit. It features three berthing areas and one large sitting area, with seating and storage throughout.

The Manta 42 also has exceptional storage capacity. The vessel stores 125 gallons of fuel and a whopping 100 gallons of freshwater. It also has generous gray and black water tanks to service both heads and the galley sinks.

Overall, the Manta 42 is an excellent choice for cruising liveaboards. It's a fast, nimble, and safe vessel with ample headroom and space throughout the cabin.

Quick Facts:

  • 42-foot overall length
  • Large master cabins
  • Built for long-term living and cruising
  • High storage capacity for fuel and water
  • High hull strength
  • American-built
  • Production ceased in the 2000s, so equipment may not be up-to-date

2. Nautitech 44

{{boat-info="/boats/nautitech-44"}}

The Nautitech 44 is the obvious choice for the number two spot on our list. This well-known cruising catamaran has a unique Center cockpit design which makes it stylish and functional.

The futuristic cockpit of the Nautitech 44 allows the crew to enjoy ample ventilation even in wet conditions. This makes it ideal for living abroad in tropical climates where rain and heat often accompany each other.

Nautitech, which is a French company, continues to produce this model due to its popularity and excellent seakeeping abilities. Prices almost always exceed $100,000, both new and used, making it one of the costlier models on the list. For the price, you get a fine interior fit and finish along with the latest comforts and conveniences.

The Nautitech 44 is available in several cabin layouts. The most popular configuration features an expansive center cockpit with below-deck living spaces, along with three berthing areas and a galley. Additionally, most of these vessels feature a large master head and several smaller heads in each of the hulls. Access to each hull through the center cockpit is easy, and the headroom is excellent.

The Nautitech 44 is a fast boat, and it's great for offshore cruising. However, hull width was sacrificed for speed and handling. This means that the hulls are slightly narrower than some of the competition. That said, it doesn't seem to bother most Nautitech owners.

  • 44-foot overall length
  • Large center cabin
  • All-weather control cockpit
  • Great ventilation
  • Ample room in the hulls
  • Wide hallways
  • Spacious heads
  • Excellent seakeeping abilities
  • Expensive on the used market
  • No open cockpit

3. Voyage 44

{{boat-info="/boats/voyage-44"}}

Here's a popular and spacious catamaran with some unique characteristics that make it ideal for living aboard. The Voyage 44 is a wide and stable multihull sailboat with a large center cockpit and an attractive interior layout.

The cabin of the Voyage 44 is modern and airy, taking advantage of light colors and thoughtfully designed furniture to make the most out of limited space. This is conducive to a pleasant living environment that's also easy to clean. The center cockpit also features a large, full galley.

The center cockpit stands out, as the voyage 44s exceptionally wide beam gives it plenty of room for tables, sitting areas, and other amenities. The windows let in plenty of light, in the cabin is completely weatherproof.

Below decks, the Voyage 44 features up to six separate heads and several sleeping areas. The master head, located in the bow, is one of the largest available on sailboats of this size range. The vessel features up to eight individuals sleeping areas, which is remarkable for a 44-foot boat.

The Voyage 44 is an excellent liveaboard catamaran due to its wide beam and extremely spacious living accommodations. Out of all the boats on this list, the Voyage 44 is likely the best value overall as it's relatively affordable. The Voyage 44 may be the perfect long-term liveaboard catamaran under 50 feet in length.

  • Unusually wide beam
  • Full master head with two showers
  • Very high speeds
  • Sturdy construction
  • Very large center cabin
  • Eight sleeping areas
  • May be too wide for some marina slips

4. Privilege 435

{{boat-info="/boats/privilege-435"}}

The Alliaura Marine Privilege 435 is a simple and elegant catamaran with a comfortable interior, smart design, ingrate offshore handling characteristics. This speedy vessel is constructed with some of the finest materials available, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. Behind the center cabin, the Privilege 435 features a strong fiberglass canopy to protect the crew from spray and son.

The majority of Privilege 435s on the market were built recently, so you can expect the latest navigation and safety equipment. Additionally, the vessel is efficient and includes amenities such as multiple heads, modern utilities, and easy access to the hulls through the center cabin.

The vessel features four separate bedrooms and enough bathrooms and showers for each person (or couple). The center Cabin is wide and features comfortable seating areas, along with a full galley with a stove and a fridge. Stepping inside the Privilege 435 is like stepping inside of a vacation house, and it feels purpose-built for long-term living.

The vessel is available in relatively high numbers, though its popularity means you're likely to pay top dollar. On the used market, the vessel sells for between $250,000 to $350,000 on average. This puts it on the upper edge of our price range. But for the price, you got a long-lasting and desirable catamaran that's ready to live aboard almost immediately.

The Privilege 435 is ideal for cruising liveaboards with families or sailors who need space for guests. The interior is very comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. It has several great spaces for entertaining multiple people. On short-to-medium voyages, the Privilege 435 should be adequate for up to eight or more adults.

  • 43-foot overall length
  • Full-size berthing areas
  • Large center galley and sitting area
  • Spacious interior
  • Large showers
  • Great offshore handling
  • Expensive, even on the used market

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-elba-45"}}

The Fountain Pajot Elba 45 is a modern and luxurious cruising catamaran with a high freeboard and all the living amenities you'd expect. It's a high-caliber vessel that sails as good as it looks, and it's still produced by the original manufacturer in Europe.

The Elba 45 has one of the largest center cabins of any catamaran in its size range. It features a large settee, a full galley, and access to both hulls. The cabin layout is flexible, and you can order one of several different designs. One of the most popular is the classic 'mirror' layout, where each hull has two master berthing areas, a V-berth in the bow, and two separate heads.

However, other versions are available with attached bathing facilities and additional room for storage, cooking, and other activities. One of the unique features of the Elba 45 is the addition of a V-berth bow. This berth connects directly to the master Beds, which makes for a unique but flexible sleeping arrangement.

If purchased new, the Elba 45 will set you back around $430,000 to $450,000. For the price, you get the latest technology and the finest interior and exterior materials. This is important in the long run as the best liveaboard catamarans should be built to last.

The fit and finish of this vessel are ideal for those looking for a luxurious living environment. Its accommodations are closer to that of a luxury yacht than a sailboat. As a result, the Elba 45 is a great place to live long-term and entertain guests.

  • 45-foot overall length
  • Multiple layouts available
  • Luxury fit-and-finish
  • Four cabins
  • Six full-size berths
  • Luxurious amenities
  • Additional V-berths in bow
  • Highest build quality
  • Upper end of the price range

6. Lagoon 380

{{boat-info="/boats/lagoon-380"}}

The majority of suitable liveaboard catamarans are over 40 feet in length. This is because it's difficult to fit comfortable accommodations in a smaller vessel. However, the Lagoon 380 is a notable exception. This 39-foot catamaran is one of the most comfortable vessels in its class, and it features a spacious interior and excellent design.

The Lagoon 380 is a newer vessel that features modern conveniences and adheres to high safety standards. Modern manufacturing techniques make this vessel stronger and easier to maintain than its older counterparts. Additionally, owners praise its sailing characteristics in both rough and calm weather.

The spacious center cabin features a full galley and sitting area with a notably wide walking room in between. It also boasts excellent visibility, which also increases the amount of natural light in the living areas. Additionally, the center cabin features easy access to the hulls, and the mirror layout provides comfortable accommodations for eight adults.

The interior space aboard the Lagoon 380 is almost indistinguishable from catamarans between 44 and 50 feet in length. The primary difference is that, instead of the traditional two heads per hull, the Lagoon 380 only features one. That said, the heads include a large shower and plenty of room to move around.

The Lagoon 380 is the perfect solution for sailors looking for big boat accommodations in a small package. Due to its shorter length, the Lagoon 380 avoids additional fees for docking and servicing vessels over 40 feet overall.

  • 39-foot overall length
  • Full galley
  • Under 40 feet in length
  • High construction quality
  • Customizable options
  • Great handling
  • Fewer bathrooms than some similar vessels

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Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

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IMAGES

  1. Please help identify this small catamaran! : r/sailing

    small catamaran reddit

  2. Discover Freedom on the Water: Small Catamarans in Detail

    small catamaran reddit

  3. 13 Best Small Catamarans For Cruising 2023

    small catamaran reddit

  4. Smaller, affordable multihulls

    small catamaran reddit

  5. Small sailing catamaran plans

    small catamaran reddit

  6. Small Sailing Catamaran Photograph by Richard Pross

    small catamaran reddit

COMMENTS

  1. Starting with a small catamaran? : r/sailing

    Yes, a small catamaran is very different than a large monohull, but at your professed skill level there's a whole lot to learn that both have in common. Also, once you tell your crew mates about having a catamaran, they will likely want to crew for you occasionally precisely because the experience is so different. 7.

  2. any recommendations for a small and safe beginner sailboat ...

    View community ranking In the Top 1% of largest communities on Reddit. any recommendations for a small and safe beginner sailboat? thinking sunfish or catamaran. was thinking of getting a small catamaran or something similar to play around with over the summer and reteach myself sailing. I was thinking about a sunfish or catamaran but open to ...

  3. Small catamaran for a heavy crew? : r/sailing

    Small catamarans in particular have my attention (Hobie 16, 18, etc). My only concern is that I'm pretty heavy at 6'1" 280. I would also like to sail with my gf at around 135 so 415ish total crew weight on a normal day. ... *Please note that if your Reddit account is new or you have low Karma then your post might be blocked as spam* Members ...

  4. 10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

    Catalina 16.5. jlodrummer. Catalina Yachts are synonymous with bigger boats but they have some great and smaller boats too such as Catalina 16.5. This is one of the best small sailboats that are ideal for family outings given that it has a big and roomy cockpit, as well as a large storage locker.

  5. How To Pick a Small Catamaran

    Generally speaking, a 38-foot-long, 21-foot-wide sailboat is not a small one. But if you love the French-style catamaran, this is about the smallest you'll find. That's because this type of boat depends on its width for stability and its length for carrying a load. A shorter boat is very easy to overload.

  6. Small Catamaran with a Family of Three? Pros/Cons?

    It is a perversion to think that three people need a 40 foot cat to sail full time. Even a 40 foot monohull should be considered more than satisfactory. If you are thinking you need a boat of that size, you completely missed the point of "Go small, go simple." If you buy the biggest boat you can afford to buy, you WILL be sucked dry by the maintenance and running costs which do NOT go down ...

  7. Small Sailing Catamarans: The Ultimate Guide

    Short answer: Small sailing catamarans. Small sailing catamarans are multi-hulled boats that offer stability, speed, and ease of handling. They typically have two parallel hulls connected by a platform and are designed for recreational or racing purposes. Popular among sailors due to their maneuverability and shallow draft, they are suitable ...

  8. Small Catamaran Comparison: Excess 11 vs. Bali Catsmart

    The Catsmart is also a 36-foot catamaran, whose configuration is totally different from that of the Excess. Here, Bali has incorporated almost all the design strengths of its other models to create a concentrated vessel of smaller size. The price, fully equipped, is also modest, at less than €500,000.

  9. Best Small Catamaran: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Vessel

    Short answer: Best small catamaran The best small catamaran refers to the renowned Hobie 16. With its ease of use, versatility, and competitive performance in various conditions, it has become a favorite among sailors worldwide. Its affordability, durability, and impressive speed make it a top choice for sailing enthusiasts looking for a thrilling experience on

  10. 10 Small Catamarans for Cruisers

    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.

  11. 8 Best Catamarans That Are 30 Feet or Less

    The best catamarans under 30 feet (9.14 m) include the TomCat 6.2, Cadillac 27and 30, Gemini 30, Endeavour 30, and Maine Cat. These time-tested cruising cats are easy to handle, premium built, and are great for daytime sailing, overnight trips, and some even suitable for long-range sea passages. In this article, you'll find a list of the best ...

  12. Thinking about getting a small catamaran. Advice? : r/sailing

    Posted by u/-AXIS- - 3 votes and 5 comments

  13. 10 Best Pocket Catamarans (Under 38 ft)

    PDQ 36. 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.

  14. How To Sail a Small Catamaran (Complete Guide)

    To start with, secure the bottom front of the mainsail to the respective shackles on the boom. Notice a small line known as an outhaul that attaches the clew (the lower back part of the mainsail) to the boom. Carefully pull it out until the mainsail forms a smooth airfoil allowing wind to blow over it.

  15. 13 Best Small Catamarans For Cruising 2023

    Price: Roughly $100,000. The Wharram Tiki is one of the best small catamarans for cruising. We have lusted after the Wharram catamarans since our adventures began and would have opted for one of these if we had found one for sale this side of the pond. Designed by the legendary James Wharram, these small multihulls are pretty unique.

  16. 15 Small Liveaboard Catamarans

    The Smart Cat S280 is the smallest catamaran on the market today. The Korean-made catamaran offers a mix of space, shallow sailing, and affordability. At the 2020 Miami Boat Show, the starting price of the Smart Cat S280 was $149,900. It runs on a 19.8 Yamaha HorsePower engine with a 50 Horse Power option.

  17. Small Catamarans for Cruisers

    Check out 10 Small Catamaran for Cruisers. Today's episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by MantusMarine.com, maker of the Mantus anchor, now available in models with and without a roll bar. Proven to set reliably in the most challenging bottoms, the Mantus anchor digs like no other, making anchoring safer and boating more enjoyable.

  18. Small catamaran

    Posted by u/greyteal - 3 votes and no comments

  19. Small Catamaran Sailboats: The Perfect Choice for Sailing Enthusiasts

    Short answer small catamaran sailboats: Small catamaran sailboats are compact, twin-hulled boats designed for sailing. With their lightweight build and manageable size, they are ideal for recreational use or racing. These boats offer excellent stability, speed, and maneuverability, making them popular among beginners and experienced sailors alike. Small Catamaran Sailboats: A Comprehensive ...

  20. Catamarans Vs. Monohulls: Choosing The Right Boat

    Attach one line to each of the forward cleats and bring the loose ends to the center. Pick up the mooring with a boathook. String one line through the eye and bring it back to the same cleat. Repeat on the other side, keeping the lines the same length so the cat is centered.

  21. Please help identify this small catamaran! : r/sailing

    183K subscribers in the sailing community. /r/Sailing is a place to ask about, share, show, and enjoy all about sailing, sail boat racing, and…

  22. Sailboat Debate: Monohull vs. Catamaran

    Jul 30, 2018. Original: Aug 17, 2015. Two sailboat experts argue monohull vs. catamaran. Contributed by Denison Yacht Sales. The great debate over which is better—one or two hulls—boils down to several factors, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. The verdict usually defaults to personal preference and intended use of the vessel ...

  23. Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

    The best liveaboard catamarans are the Manta 42, the Nautitech 44, the Voyage 44, the Privilege 435, the Elba 35, and the Lagoon 380. These vessels are seaworthy, comfortable, and ideal for long-term living. We sourced the technical specifications of these vessels from maritime records and directly from sailboat manufacturers.