docking a power catamaran

Driving and Docking a Catamaran: Guide for Boaters

Catamarans have grown in popularity among boaters, both for recreational sailing and long-distance cruising. With their dual-hull design, they offer stability, speed, and ample space. However, driving and docking a catamaran is a unique experience compared to single-hull boats. This guide will take you through the essentials of operating and maneuvering a catamaran, covering its driving characteristics, docking tips, common challenges, and an overview of pricing and specifications for some popular models.

What Is a Catamaran?

A catamaran is a boat with two parallel hulls connected by a deck or bridge. This design provides more stability and reduces drag in the water, making catamarans faster and more efficient than monohull boats. Catamarans are known for their spacious interiors, increased living space on the deck, and shallow draft, making them perfect for coastal cruising and anchoring near shores.

There are two primary types of catamarans: sail-powered and power catamarans. Each has unique driving and docking considerations, which we’ll explore below.

Driving a Catamaran

Understanding the dual hulls.

Driving a catamaran differs from operating a monohull because of the boat’s width and the twin hulls. Here’s how the catamaran design affects driving:

• Stability : The wide stance of the hulls makes catamarans more stable, reducing rolling in rough seas. However, it also means they handle differently when turning and responding to wind or current.
• Manoeuvrability : Catamarans are agile, especially power catamarans, due to the ability to control each hull’s engine independently. This gives them better control, especially when docking or navigating tight spaces.
• Wind Influence : Catamarans are more susceptible to wind because of their large profile and lightweight design. Sail-powered catamarans especially benefit from their ability to harness wind, but this can make them tricky to drive in strong winds when compared to monohulls.

Key Differences in Driving a Catamaran

• Speed and Efficiency : Catamarans glide across the water with minimal drag, making them more efficient and often faster than their monohull counterparts. When driving, you’ll find that maintaining speed requires less fuel or wind power.
• Turning Radius : Catamarans tend to have a wider turning radius, requiring more space to make turns. However, with dual engines (on power catamarans), you can pivot the boat using differential thrust, making it possible to spin in place.
• Handling Waves : Unlike monohulls that cut through waves, catamarans ride over them. This makes for a smoother experience but also means that waves can impact both hulls differently, requiring you to adjust your steering.

Docking a Catamaran

Docking a catamaran requires a combination of skills and careful attention to the conditions. The wider beam, lighter weight, and susceptibility to wind present unique challenges. However, with some practice, catamarans can be docked smoothly and efficiently.

1. Approach at an Angle

When docking a catamaran, the first rule is to approach at an angle. This gives you more control and allows you to adjust for wind and current. A slow, controlled approach will help you compensate for any unexpected movements.

2. Use Differential Thrust

If your catamaran is equipped with twin engines, you can use differential thrust to your advantage. This involves using more throttle on one engine and less on the other to make precise movements, including rotating the boat to line it up with the dock.

3. Mind the Wind

Wind can have a significant impact when docking a catamaran, especially if the boat is light. Always dock into the wind if possible, as this gives you better control. If the wind is pushing you toward the dock, approach more slowly to avoid collisions.

4. Use Fenders and Lines

The width of a catamaran makes fender placement especially important. Place fenders along both sides of the boat to avoid damaging the hulls. Additionally, set up docking lines in advance, as this will help you secure the boat once it’s close to the dock.

5. Shallow Draft Considerations

One advantage of catamarans is their shallow draft, which allows you to dock closer to shore in many situations. However, be mindful of the depth and obstacles near the dock to prevent damage to the rudders or keels.

Common Challenges When Docking a Catamaran

• Wide Beam : The wide stance of a catamaran can make finding appropriate dock space more difficult, especially in crowded marinas.
• Windage : Catamarans are more susceptible to wind, especially when docked in open areas. Wind can easily push the boat off course, making docking more challenging.
• Limited Docking Space : Some docks aren’t designed to accommodate the wider beam of a catamaran, which may require special arrangements or berthing in less accessible areas.

Price and Specifications of Popular Catamarans

To help you understand the range of options available, here’s a look at a few popular catamaran models, including their specifications and price ranges.

1. Lagoon 42 (Sailing Catamaran)

• Length : 42 feet
• Beam : 25 feet
• Draft : 4.1 feet
• Engine : 2 x 57 HP
• Top Speed : 9-10 knots under sail
• Price : $600,000 – $750,000 (new)
• Features : The Lagoon 42 is a favorite among cruising enthusiasts, offering ample living space, a large cockpit, and easy handling. It’s ideal for long-term cruising and comes equipped with various modern amenities like solar panels and watermakers.

2. Fountaine Pajot MY 44 (Power Catamaran)

• Length : 44 feet
• Beam : 21.7 feet
• Draft : 3.8 feet
• Engine : 2 x 350 HP Volvo Penta
• Top Speed : 25 knots
• Price : $1.2 million – $1.5 million (new)
• Features : This luxury power catamaran offers high-performance engines, exceptional maneuverability, and a spacious, modern interior. With its twin-engine setup, docking is a breeze, and it’s perfect for long-distance cruising.

3. Leopard 45 (Sailing Catamaran)

• Length : 45 feet
• Beam : 24 feet
• Draft : 4.10 feet
• Engine : 2 x 45 HP
• Top Speed : 9-11 knots under sail
• Price : $700,000 – $850,000 (new)
• Features : Known for its robust build and reliability, the Leopard 45 is a versatile sailing catamaran that offers a well-appointed layout, plenty of deck space, and easy access to the helm for simplified docking.

4. Sunreef 50 (Luxury Catamaran)

• Length : 50 feet
• Beam : 30.8 feet
• Draft : 5.7 feet
• Engine : 2 x 80 HP
• Top Speed : 12 knots under sail
• Price : $1.7 million – $2.5 million (new)
• Features : Sunreef catamarans are synonymous with luxury. The Sunreef 50 is a perfect example, featuring expansive living quarters, a luxurious master suite, and customizable layouts. It’s ideal for those looking to cruise in style.

Driving and docking a catamaran is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it comes with unique challenges. Whether you’re handling a sailing catamaran or a power catamaran, understanding how to control the vessel’s dual engines, accounting for wind, and mastering differential thrust are key to a smooth ride and docking. With time and practice, you’ll find that catamarans offer unparalleled comfort, performance, and stability on the water.

If you’re considering purchasing a catamaran, it’s essential to consider your boating style, desired features, and budget. From the agile Lagoon 42 to the luxurious Sunreef 50, there’s a wide range of catamarans available, each designed to provide a unique experience on the water.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to boating, mastering the art of driving and docking a catamaran will open up a world of adventure on the open sea. Happy sailing!

Happy Boating!

Share   Driving and Docking a Catamaran: Guide for Boaters with your friends and leave a comment below with your thoughts.

Read How to Choose a Life Raft for Your Boat: The Complete Guide until we meet in the next article. 

Similar Posts

15 Most Affordable Entry-Level Boat Models

Getting started with boating doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a day of fishing, watersports, or leisurely cruising, there’s a wide range of affordable entry-level boats on the market that offer solid performance without a hefty price tag. This article highlights 15 of the most affordable entry-level boats, offering a…

Better Boating Tips for Better Buying

Purchasing a boat is an exciting venture, but it’s a major investment that requires careful consideration. Whether you’re buying your first boat or upgrading to a larger vessel, having the right information can make the process smoother. In this article, we’ll explore better boating tips for better buying, covering important aspects like budgeting, boat types,…

PA Boats for Sale: Setting Sail in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers a wealth of opportunities for boating enthusiasts. From cruising the tranquil waters of the Delaware River to exploring the vast expanse of Lake Erie, there’s a waterway waiting to be discovered. But before you embark on your aquatic adventures, you’ll need the perfect vessel. This guide will navigate you through the world of…

Used Pontoon Boats for Sale by Owner Minnesota: Guide

Minnesota’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes” beckons boat lovers with its endless opportunities for aquatic adventures. Pontoon boats, with their spacious decks, comfortable seating, and stable platform, are ideal for cruising scenic waterways, enjoying relaxing days on the water with family and friends, or even fishing excursions. If you’re looking to join the fun on a…

The Top Boat Warranty Basics Every Owner Should Understand

Purchasing a boat is a significant investment, whether you’re an avid boater or just getting started. One of the most critical aspects of boat ownership that often gets overlooked is the warranty. A solid warranty not only provides peace of mind but also protects you from unexpected repair costs. Understanding the essentials of boat warranties…

12 Most Common Boating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Boating can be one of the most exhilarating ways to enjoy the great outdoors. However, it also comes with its set of challenges and responsibilities. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced boater, mistakes can happen. Some of these errors can be costly, while others might put your safety or the safety of others at…

Driving and Docking a Catamaran

Once a staple of sailing charter vacations, cats today are popping up everywhere – in hot and cold climates and as power or sailboats. Cats offer numerous benefits not the least of which is being easier to handle under power in close quarters - once you learn to drive one, that is. 

Explore Power Catamarans

Explore Sailing Catamarans

The Basics Cats have the distinct advantage of having twin propellers set far apart so the boats will spin in their own length. When learning, it’s easiest to leave the rudders centered not only because messing with the wheel adds complexity, but also because at slow speeds, catamarans don’t need flow over the rudders to turn – the engines do the trick. If you have a rudder angle indicator, check to see that the rudders are centered. If you don’t, spin the wheel from lock to lock and then cut the number of turns in half to figure out where center is.  

Once the rudders are centered, lock the wheel and work the throttles with your hands. Imagine holding a bar with both hands in front of you. Moving your right hand forward will move your left hand aft. Notice how your shoulders turn and in which direction you end up facing. Now apply this to the throttles. Powering forward with the starboard engine and aft with the port, will turn the cat to port and vice versa. 

It’s often better to use one engine at a time for fine tuning a cat maneuver because both props racing can overpower a simple turn. Also, since cat propellers are so far aft, the boats are usually quicker to respond in a given direction while in reverse. 

Docking and Departure Leaving a portside tie up with boats both fore and aft like at a fuel dock, put a fender on your port quarter. Then put the starboard engine in reverse until the bows pivot out, clearing the boat ahead, and drive forward with first the port and then both engines. If there is limited space forward, back out but first put a fender on your port bow to cushion any contact. Then put the starboard engine gently in forward and the port in reverse until the transoms clear the boat behind and back out by using reverse on both engines. 

Coming to a portside tie up, put a fender on your port quarter, come along and slightly ahead of the space where you want to end up on a busy quay. Pivot so that your stern angles about 45 degrees to the dock with the port engine in forward and the starboard in reverse. Power aft slowly with both engines and a few feet before the fender makes contact, put the starboard into forward, keeping the port in reverse to pivot into the dock.

Catamarans don’t coast well primarily because they don’t have a deep keel to track. Relying on coasting to a dock at a shallow angle and then going to reverse and using prop walk to cozy up the stern won’t work as well as it does on a monohull. It is better to come in at a sharper angle and then pivot the boat into position with the engines especially if there is little room fore and aft.

Backing into a Slip Backing into a slip is easier on a catamaran than a monohull because there are twin counter-rotating propellers that negate propwalk which is the pull to once side when a single screw boat is in reverse. To back into a slip (which will make it more convenient for crew to step on and off) pull up until perpendicular with the slip, pivot the boat with the engines and then use both in reverse, adjusting as you back up if there is wind or current. 

Picking up a Mooring To minimize swinging on a mooring, and to keep it quieter for anyone sleeping in the forward cabins, use two lines to hook a cat up to a mooring. Attach one line to each of the forward cleats and bring the loose ends to the center. Pick up the mooring with a boathook and find the eye – often well below the float. 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. It’s best if you have at least two people to do this quickly but one can manage while you keep station with the engines. Communication with your crew will be key since you’ll lose sight of the mooring before reaching it so make sure you you’re lined up and don’t’ overrun it. Instead of centering the mooring on the bow, it can be easier to maneuver so that the mooring is by one hull where the driver can see it and where the crew are standing on a solid deck rather than in the soft trampoline when managing the lines.

Tracking and Walking Most cats have mini-keels to help them track. Others have daggerboards that may be retracted into the hull. Coming into a shallow anchorage, it may be intuitive to raise the boards all the way up to avoid grounding. However, the round hull bottoms provide little grip and picking up a mooring or anchoring in windy conditions will make the cat slip around like on a bar of soap. Leaving a foot or so of the daggerboards down will provide enough traction to spin and maneuver as you need. 

To walk a cat sideways, as in toward a dock on the port side, spin the wheel to about 80% away from the dock (to starboard), put the starboard engine into idle forward and the port engine into low rpm reverse. Keep it slow and controlled. Each cat will react differently and there are also the issues of wind and current to contend with so this maneuver may need to be adjusted in its percentages and rpm based on conditions.

There is no substitute for practice, not only to learn the basics, but also to get the nuances of a particular boat. Spend an hour docking in various situations and you’ll soon be a pro.

Read Next: Catamaran Boats: Types, Uses & Activities

Join Our Newsletter!

Get community news, buying bargains, and how-to guides at your fingertips.

How To Dock a Catamaran (Step-by-Step For Beginners)

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site.

One thing that still gets me nervous is pulling into dock and parking my boat. You would think a few years into this, I would be untouched by such a mundane task, that is not how it goes, and many of you are just like me. But a major stress reduction came from switching from a monohull to a catamaran, the ease of use from those double engines is amazing, and today’s post is all about that! No more docking-induced anxiety!

To dock a catamaran, you don’t need to use the wheel. Instead, use the throttles to maneuver and position the cat. You can dock either bow or stern first, but stern first gives more visibility to the sides and rear. Take it slow so you can assess conditions and adjust your position as needed.

Don’t let the size of your catamaran intimidate you – it’s easier than you think to maneuver it for docking. Below we’ll sail through some docking techniques once i have explained a bit more about what makes docking a catamaran special.  

What Is Special About Docking a Catamaran?

If you’re used to handling monohulls, there are several differences you need to understand before docking a cat:

• The twin engines spaced widely apart make a cat extremely maneuverable.
• A cat can rotate 360° on its central axis.
• You can operate a cat at very low speeds, unlike a monohull which needs a minimum speed to maneuver.
• A cat’s low weight means that you can brake, turn and accelerate faster than on a heavy monohull.
• Instead of maneuvering with the wheel and rudder, you control your cat through the two throttles when docking.

All of this comes in handy because a catamaran sits high on the water. This, together with the higher cabin, creates windage . In theory, windage, plus the larger beam of a catamaran, could make docking quite tricky. But that’s where the spaced apart twin engines come into their own.

You can use the two engines together or alone (perfect if one breaks down), and you can use one in the forward position and the other in reverse. This means you have a significant amount of control when maneuvering. That’s especially useful when docking. And that’s what we’ll look at now.

Step one to six is about correctly preparing your catamaran for docking, step seven and onward takes you through different ways of docking.

1. Check the Available Docking Space

It might sound obvious, but the first thing to think about is whether there’s enough space for your catamaran at the dock. Remember, catamarans are sizable beasts, and in busy marinas, space may be at a premium. In most cases, you will need two adjacent spots to fit your vessel in.

If you need to, take an extra lap to scout the perfect spot.

If you’re docking parallel to the dock, you might have to fit between other boats. So, check the gap is large enough to accommodate the length of your catamaran with room to spare. 

If you’re docking into a u-shaped slip , check the size of the gap between the two docks that form the slip’s sides. If it’s a shared slip, you’ll have another vessel on one side. 

Either way, you’ll need a gap large enough for the width of your catamaran. However, you want room to spare down the sides to accommodate the fenders . The slip’s sides should also be long enough to cater to the length of your catamaran, plus fenders. Check with marina management if your catamaran protrudes at all to make sure this is okay.

Pro tip: Call the marina beforehand and tell them your size and ask if they can show you in!

2. Note the Wind Direction and Speed

As mentioned above, a catamaran’s higher hull and cabin create more windage. You have to take this into account when docking in windy conditions, as it can cause your cat to drift off your planned docking course.

With this in mind, you’ll need to figure out if you’ll be docking against the wind or if the wind is blowing you in the direction of the dock. 

A great way to check wind direction is to look at the flags in the marina. You’ll see from them which way the wind is blowing relative to the dock. You can also get an idea of wind speed from them. Alternatively, observe the direction in which the wind is moving moored boats.

Wind and currents might affect how you dock or use the throttles to control your catamaran, especially if docking against the wind. We’ll talk more about docking in windy conditions below.

3. Check the Direction and Speed of Any Current

Currents will affect catamaran handling, and as with the wind, knowing the current direction and speed is crucial to docking.

In The Bahamas, we would sometimes have 3-4 knots of current coming into the marina. If you’re going with the current on a monohull, that means you’ll have to go even faster if you want to be able to steer. On a cat, this is much easier to handle! Entering the Island of Bimin //Gabo

Currents are just as likely as wind to cause you to drift from your intended position as you prepare to dock. Or worse, currents can push you up against the dock or other vessels. So, you might find you’re adjusting your position with the throttles more than if docking in calm conditions.

4. Prepare Your Fenders and Your Dingey

Before you dock, you’ll need to ensure you’ve prepared your fenders which will protect your catamaran and the dock from each other. They’ll also help avoid damage if you’re docking next to other boats.

For parallel docking, you’ll need enough fenders to place along the docking side of the catamaran to cushion all potential impact points.

If docking in a three-sided slip, you’ll need fenders on the sides of your catamaran. If reversing into the slip, you’ll also need fenders on the rear.

Have a good look at the docking space before you hang your fenders, and be aware of anything along your docking course that your fenders may snag on. Getting your fenders snagged could cause a loss of control. That’s not a good thing when maneuvering at close quarters.

Also, make sure you either hoist the dinghy onboard or tie it to the side of the cat. You dont want a dingey bouncing around, and you definitely dont want a dingey line stuck in your prop while trying to dock.

And here’s a free lesson I learned the hard way; make sure you put the dinghy in a place where it doesn’t interfere with you moving around the boat. Otherwise, you will, just like I did, have created an obstacle course for yourself!

5. Tie the Dock Lines to the Bow and Stern Cleats

Just as important as fenders, you’ll also need to prepare your dock lines which are used to secure your catamaran to the dock. You’ll need dock lines at both the bow and stern.

You may need to secure them to the dock quickly, depending on conditions when docking. So, make sure you’ve prepared them, ready for you or your crew to grab.

ALWAYS keep track of your lines! We didn’t, and we almost sank our boat in the Bimini marina after a rope got tangled in the propeller creating a crooked propeller shaft and a large hole in the hull! Gabo

6. Center the Rudders

As mentioned above, you don’t need the wheel to dock a catamaran. At the low speed required for docking your catamaran, the rudder won’t be of much help anyway. So, set the rudders to 0°, or on the centerline. 

If you can, lock the wheel in place. Your sole focus should be on the throttles. You can do some more advanced moves that will need you to set your rudders at an angle, but for now, let’s go with the basics!

How To Dock Your Catamaran

Now you’re ready to dock your catamaran, but how you do this depends on several factors. In particular, how you approach the dock will vary depending on whether you’re parallel docking or docking in a slip. It will also depend on whether you’re docking stern first or going in with the bow. As mentioned before, you’ll need to take note of the wind and current direction.

Whether you’re familiar with the dock or not, there’s no need to rush things. If you do, you risk damaging your catamaran or other vessels. Captain Andros

So, even if you think you’ve got bags of space, the slower you go, the better. It’ll give you time to understand how your catamaran is responding to whatever conditions exist in the marina. You can then make adjustments to the throttles as needed.

Let’s look at different ways to dock your catamaran.

7A. Parallel Docking: Stern First

Docking stern first is often preferable to bow first. That’s because you’ll have more visibility to the sides and rear of the catamaran from your steering position. It’s also better for whoever will be securing the first dock line since it’s easier to alight from the stern end.

Also, if things go awry, it’s more instinctive to shift the throttles forward, to get yourself out of trouble quickly. Doing that can get you into more trouble if you go in bow first.

Pull Up With Your Beam Parallel to Your Berth

Once again, you want to take this slow. Remember, with a catamaran, you don’t need to maintain a certain speed to maneuver it. So, keep your speed to no more than about 1 knot as you approach the dock. 

Bring your catamaran’s beam to a position that’s parallel to the docking space but not too close. Aim for a distance of about the width of your catamaran between you and the dock. This will give you room to turn the stern to angle it into the dock while reversing simultaneously.

If there are other docked vessels, pull alongside them, like when you parallel park a car between other vehicles.

Identify a Dock Cleat for Securing the Stern

It’s a good idea to aim for a cleat to which you can attach a dock line to secure the stern. Once you’ve secured the stern, you’ll find it easy to maneuver the catamaran into the correct position to complete docking. Preferably this cleat has been identified already at the dry run mentioned above.

Rotate the Stern

Now you can rotate the stern towards the dock cleat. You’ll approach the dock with the stern angled at about 45°. To rotate, you’ll primarily use the outer engine in reverse to swing the stern in and the bow out as you move backward.

That means, if you’re docking port side, you’ll use the starboard engine in reverse to rotate the catamaran to the correct angle. It’ll be the port engine if you’re docking on the starboard side.

Once you have your angle right, you can put both engines to neutral and let the catamaran coast backward toward the dock. A bit of reverse thrust might be necessary if the wind or current is at your back.

Get the stern near enough to the dock for someone to step off to secure the stern dock line. 

Put the Outer Engine Into Forward

Once you’ve secured the stern line to the dock, you can put the outboard engine into the forward position. This will bring the bow around until the catamaran is parallel with the dock. This is an excellent time to make any final adjustments to the positioning of the fenders. You’ll have a better idea at this stage about how to place them for maximum protection.

At this point, the inner engine (the one closest to the dock) will generally stay in neutral. But you might need to run it slightly forward if you find you’re swinging the bow around too fast. 

Generally, you’ll probably find yourself switching between both throttles to refine your position to get yourself parallel to the dock. 

When you’re almost parallel, put the outer engine to neutral and let momentum complete the move. But, if that momentum is too much, a little forward thrust on the inner engine should halt the bow. Once you’ve got the bow in, secure the bow line to the dock.

You can see the whole process in the following clip between the 1:14 and 3:54 marks. It’s well worth a watch because there are some helpful close-ups of the throttle action throughout the clip:

7B. Parallel Docking: Bow First

While docking stern first is preferable, if you need to dock bow first, here’s what you should do.

Approach the Dock With the Bow at About a 45° Angle

Once again, remember, slow is good when it comes to docking, whichever way you do it. As you approach your berth at the dock, turn the bow at about 45° to the dock. To get the angle, put the outer engine into forward and the inner to neutral. This will turn the bow in while you continue to move forward.

Once you’re around 10ft (3m) from the dock, put both throttles to neutral. Putting the throttles to neutral will slow the catamaran’s forward motion. You want to be doing less than a knot at this point.

Once the bow is closer to the dock, if you have someone who can get ashore from the bow end, they can secure the bow line to the dock. If not, go to the next stage. 

Bring the Stern In

With your bow now close to the dock, the next stage is to bring the stern in. If the dock is to the port side, you need to put the starboard engine into reverse and keep the port engine in neutral. If the dock is to the starboard side, keep the starboard engine in neutral and put the port engine in reverse.

Putting the outer engine into reverse will slow the catamaran’s forward movement further. At the same time, it will rotate the stern towards the dock. This rotation will bring the catamaran parallel to the dock.

Again, this is where you can make final adjustments to the position of the fenders.

Tie the Stern and Bow Dock Lines

Once the stern is close enough, you can get both the stern and bow lines cleated. With the stern secured, hold the catamaran parallel to the dock, using the throttles if necessary. 

The stern dock line should limit forward movement. But a slight forward thrust on the outboard engine will help keep the bow in if it starts drifting out before you get the bow secured.

7C. Parallel Docking: Wind or Current Pushing You In

If you have wind or currents pushing you toward the dock, you can use their directional effect when parallel docking. And it’s best to dock stern first to avoid the bow getting blown in.

Position your catamaran parallel to the dock. Again, try to line up the stern with a cleat to make it easier to secure the stern line quickly. Once parallel to the dock, let the wind or current push you in the rest of the way. You can use the engines as needed to keep your catamaran parallel if the wind or current throws it off its position.

Once you’ve secured the stern dock line, hold the catamaran in position with a few forward revs on the outer engine. That will keep the bow in so you can secure the bow dock line.

7D. Parallel Docking: Wind or Current Pushing You Away

Parallel docking in wind or currents pushing you away from the dock may sound hard, but the control you have with the dual engines will help. Your priority for docking in these conditions is to secure the stern, as this will help get the bow in against the wind or current. 

Go in stern first, aiming for a cleat and use the engines to keep the stern angled at about 45° as you reverse toward the dock. Don’t be surprised if you need to make more adjustments with the throttles than on a calm day. 

Once the stern is close enough, you can get the stern line secured to the dock. When that’s done, move the throttles forward to bring the bow in against the wind. The stern line will limit the catamaran’s forward movement. This, combined with the forward thrust from the engines, will pull the bow in.

The following video demonstrates bow and stern first docking. In the latter, the wind is pushing the cat away from the dock. The footage includes drone-eye views, so you really get to see what’s happening:

7E. Docking into a Slip

In many marinas, you’ll find u-shaped slips with parallel docks on either side in which you can berth your catamaran. So, instead of docking parallel, you’ll reverse into the slip.

Reversing into a slip has the benefit of making it that much easier to leave, especially when there’s limited space in the marina. However, you’ll need to do a bit more maneuvering than if you go in bow first. 

So, here’s how to do it.

Take Up a Position in Front of the Slip

Reversing into a slip is a reasonably easy maneuver. Once you’re in front of the slip, you’ll need to rotate your catamaran on the spot to get your stern facing the slip. 

Remember, you can rotate a catamaran around its central axis by putting one throttle in reverse and the other forward by equal amounts.

You can see this rotation maneuver in the following clip:

Reverse Into the Slip Using Both Throttles

Once you’ve rotated your catamaran so the stern faces the slip, you can put both throttles slightly into reverse. This will move you straight back into the slip.

Don’t go overboard on the reverse thrust here. In fact, you’ll probably want to switch from slight reverse to neutral on the throttles, so you end up coasting into position.

You might need to tinker with your position as you’re moving back. It’s just as you might make minor steering adjustments when reversing a car to straighten it out or keep it straight. 

So, that’s a step-by-step guide to how to dock a catamaran in various conditions. While the conditions you might encounter will vary, the control that dual engines spaced widely apart gives you will help you deal with them.

The crucial thing is to take it slow, to give yourself time to assess the conditions, and adjust your throttles as needed. Do that, and docking a catamaran will be plain sailing. Print this page and take it with you on your next sail and before you dock use it as a checklist to gain some confidence and trust me the anxiety will disappear!

• Marsh Marine Design: Wetted Surface Area
• Wikipedia: Beam (nautical)
• The Naval Arch: The Four Important Factors for a Ship’s Windage Area Calculations
• Renegar Construction: The Difference Between Boat Slips and Docks: Which is Right for Your Lake House?
• SVB24: Find the Right Fender for Your Boat
• Summerland Yacht Club: Recommended Dock Line Practices
• Youtube: How to Park Your Catamaran: Docking Part 2
• Youtube: Catamaran Docking Part 2
• Yachting World: Catamaran Sailing Techniques: Everything You Need to Know

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

Must-Have Boat Gear for Catamaran Sailors!

Sailing is probably the most gear-intensive activity I've ever done; there are so many decisions to be made about what gear to buy now, for tomorrow, and what to definitely never buy. The gear on...

6 Best Trailerable Trimarans For Bluewater and Coastal Sailing

Having a boat costs a lot of money, even when you are not using it, marina fees, etc. And once it is in the water most sailors never go very far from their "home marina" and sailing will be somewhat...

CRUISING TIPS: Docking

Here’s an excerpt of our recent article on boat handling for catamarans.  The original piece, in entirety, can be found in our 2018 Seawind Cruising Club Magazine.   Download a copy here .

Of the numerous benefits of owning a catamaran, one which simply cannot be overlooked is the control advantages offered with a dual engine setup as found in most modern cruising catamarans.  And while the redundancy of twin engines is a huge bonus for any serious sailor, you simply have to admire the maneuvering possibilities offered in this simple setup.

Turning in Tight Quarters.

Turning in Tight Quarters

When the need arises you can turn your catamaran in a 360 degree spin within its own boat length. When entering a crowded marina at slow speeds, hold the rudders on center and use the engines to steer the boat through to the boats berth. To turn to Starboard, apply more throttle to the Port engine and vise versa (again, resisting any urge to touch the rudders). To perform a hard turn to Port, increase the Starboard throttle forward and push the Port throttle into reverse.

Pushing Off.

Pushing Off

You’re berthed with your Port side-to and have boats tightly packed in front and behind. You are going to need to swing the bow out, clear of the boat ahead before motoring away from the marina. To do this, ensure you have a good fender tied off your rear quarter, you are going to use this to pivot the boar away from the dock. First push the Port throttle into forward at low speed and then engage the Starboard throttle in reverse at a low-medium throttle. Adjust both throttles back and forth to balance the boat in its static position while the bows pull away from the dock. If you are not confident in your abilities to do this unaided, wrap a spring line from the aft cleat to the dock and then back to the boat. Adjust this to prevent the boat from travelling backward and then release once the bow is clear of the boat ahead.

When entering a slip at your marina, the best way by far is to back the cat into the slip rather than entering bow first. On a Seawind the steering station is slightly aft, and outboard which provides better visibility when backing in. You also have twin helms and if dual controls are optioned, favor the side closest to the dock as it is important to keep a close eye on the distance between you and the dock. In tight quarters drive the boat along the pens as you approach your berth then as you would when reverse parking a car turn the bows away from the slip. It is best to then bring the boat to a complete or near stop before engaging in the reverse maneuver. Put the engines into reverse applying more throttle to the side furthest from the dock. Ensure your fenders are out and dock lines prepared. Slowly back the boat into the slip until you can throw your stern line to shore crew or loop onto the aft dock bollard yourself. Be sure to disengage the throttle before doing so and ensure the boat has come to a stop. You can then attach a bow line and shut down both engines.

Through steady throttle control you can actually maneuver your catamaran sideways off a dock. The boat will shuffle sideways crab-like. To start, follow the same steps as if you were pushing off, as described in the previous section. Next, rather than engaging both engines in forward you will reverse the throttle orientation and continue to alternate the throttles from (Port-forward / Starboard– reverse) to (Starboard- forward / Port- reverse) combinations applying more throttle to the side furthest from the intended turn direction.  In doing so, you will move the bow outward in one movement and the transom outward in the other and so on.

Here’s the CATAMARAN DOCKING video that walk you through each step slowly:

For more information, please click here:

Ask a question

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Docking a catamaran

Also in Technique

• Foul weather gear care
• Survive going overboard
• The knots you need to know
• How to start sailing shorthanded
• Winch servicing
• Repairing delaminated core
• Splicing Dyneema
• DIY custom bug screens
• Anchoring and mooring a catamaran
• Co-owning a boat

Also from Staff

• Tor Johnson
• Learn to Sail Better
• New boat: Aureus XV Absolute
• Remembering Hobie
• Catalina 275 Sport
• New boat: Saphire 27

Docking Under Power

Maneuvering a multihull under sail in tight anchorages, or around docks, requires some practice, particularly with cruising cats that lack good crisp response to the helm. Give yourself some additional time and distance to turn, and be aware of how quickly a multihull can accelerate in a gust or come to a stop once headed into the wind. Play your main and jib just as you would with a monohull . However, it is best to approach a dock under power, with all sails dropped for maximum control.

below The practical center cockpit of a Chris White-designed, Atlantic 48. Although not nearly as spacious as more conventional aft cockpits, it has the advantage of placing the crew close to the most vital of the yacht's controls.

above "Willow" finally docked in St. Lucia after our longest transatlantic passage, which lasted more than 21 days; she was the second multihull to finish in the 2004 ARC.

Catamarans have twin engines, one in each hull, which not only contribute to their safety, but also to their maneuverability. There are no issues with "prop walk" and by simply putting one engine in forward and the other in reverse, any catamaran will turn on its own axis.

Modern diesels have become bulletproof and are the number one choice for cruisers. Whether straight shaft or sail drive power trains, both are reliable. Sail-drives will have a space advantage, often permitting the engine to be moved farther aft, gaining space in the interior. Their early corrosion problems have been totally eliminated and sail drives are seen on most production multihulls today. Propeller size and pitch must be properly engineered to avoid cavitation at any speed and they should, preferably, be of the two-blade folding or three-blade feathering type to reduce drag when sailing.

It is important to remember that rudders need water to flow over them in order to be effective, making them useless under 2 knots of boat speed. When maneuvering to a mooring, around obstacles or a dock, slow down sufficiently to control your approach. If your speed drops to under 2 knots, it is important to center the helm (check the rudder angle indicator) and only utilize the twin engines for steerage and yaw adjustment.

Daggerboard catamarans have the advantage of retracting both boards when motoring and thereby can reduce some drag. However, when approaching docks under power in high crosswind situations, they should be lowered in order to provide bite and help resist drift.

Continue reading here: Motor Sailing

Was this article helpful?

Recommended Programs

Myboatplans 518 Boat Plans

Related Posts

• Gybing - Catamarans Guide
• Jaguar - Catamarans Guide
• Reefing - Catamarans Guide
• Pdq Antares - Catamarans Guide
• Catamaran Design Guide - Catamarans Guide
• Heavy Weather Tactics - Catamarans Guide

Readers' Questions

Are power catamarans hard to dock?

No, power catamarans are not hard to dock. In fact, they may be easier to dock than traditional motorboats since they have two hulls, providing additional stability in the water.

How to sail cruising catamaran docking maneuvering?

Pick a safe and spacious approach: When preparing to dock a cruising catamaran, select a spot with plenty of room. If you have a large area to work with, it will be easier to execute the maneuvering and docking. Set up leeway control: Have one crew member positioned on the bows of both hulls of the catamaran. This will enable the crew to control leeway and help the catamaran maintain its course. Use the rudder to steer: The rudder of the catamaran is essential for making fine adjustments during docking. Use the rudder to steer the boat towards the dock. Maintain a watch on wind and current: Monitor the wind and current to assess their effects on the boat. This will help you adjust the boat’s speed and course as needed during docking. Stop the boat near the dock: As you approach the dock, gradually reduce the speed of the boat. When you are close enough, use the engines or a fender to stop the boat from moving. Use the engine, rudder, and bow lines: Once the boat has stopped, have the crew members on the bows adjust the bow lines as needed. Use the engine and rudder to maneuver the boat into its final position at the dock. Stop the engines and secure the boat: Once the boat is in the desired position, turn off the engines and secure the boat to the dock using bow and stern lines.

How to dock catamaran under power?

Prepare the boat for docking. Make sure the sails are down and stowed safely and that all loose objects are secure. Shut off all power, including the engine, before docking. Approach the dock slowly and carefully. As you approach, evaluate the wind and current direction and watch for any other boats that may be in the area. Position the boat parallel to the dock. Once you have the boat in the right position, reduce power gradually until you are in a hovering position. Extend the boat's fenders. Fenders are large circular objects that are hung on the sides of the boat to protect it against the dock. Secure the boat to the dock. Tie the boat to cleats on the dock with mooring lines on both sides. Make sure the lines are tight and secure. Turn off the boat's power and double-check that it is secure. Disembark when the boat is secure.

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Sailing Totem
• Sailor & Galley
• Living Aboard
• Destinations
• Gear & Electronics
• Charter Resources
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

How to Dock a Catamaran

• By Cruising World Staff
• Updated: July 19, 2013

• More: boat handling , catamaran , How To , multihull , seamanship
• More How To

Surviving the Storm: A Sailor’s Tale of Hurricane Lee

Best Practices for Boat-Show Shopping

Grease the Wheels of Your Boat: A Guide to Proper Lubrication

A Bowsprit Reborn: A DIY Renovation Story

Savoring Superior: A Great Lakes Cruise To Remember

Point Your Compass Due South, Bitter End Yacht Club Reopens October 23rd.

Pre-Owned: 1988 Hylas 47

Understanding Wind in the West Indies

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Docking with Confidence

Ask Captain Chris about docking procedures for cruising boats with single engine, twin engine or pod drives both with and without thrusters. Learn easy to understand docking maneuvers with split screen views including controls at the helm and dockside landing. You will discover simple techniques to take the stress out of docking, keeping the pleasure in pleasure boating.

Watch Trailer

Watch more More Docking video’s with Captain Chris!

Sign up now for our Free Docking Tips Training!

Phone: 772.205.1859 | [email protected] | Copyright © 2006 - 2023 Captain Chris Yacht Services LLC. All rights reserved.

Maneuvering Under Power and Docking | Online Course

Learn to dock a sailboat like a pro.

This online course is designed to teach sailors how to confidently handle sailboats in diverse docking and wind conditions, ensuring smooth docking every time. Covering monohulls with single and dual rudders, as well as catamarans, this course equips you with the skills to manage your vessel in various wind and docking scenarios. Additionally, you'll learn the techniques for effective Mediterranean Mooring, commonly used in the Mediterranean.

Estimated time: 4 hours Price: $39 (or $33 with the Skipper Large Keelboat Bundle )

Enroll in NauticEd's Maneuvering Under Power and Docking Online Course and gain the theory, practical advice, and strategies necessary to dock and maneuver your sailboat like a pro. This is an absolutely essential course for all who intend to take the helm. It will save you thousands of $$$ in dents, bumps, and scratches at the marina - not to mention saving you the embarrassment and humiliation of being known as a bumper car sailor!

You will also gain access to our Virtual Reality modules which allow you to practice and gain muscle memory of all your learnings in an amazing real "virtual reality" environment. This is optional and is an upcharge done through our VR partner MarineVerse. Instructions for the VR component are in the course. Again, optional but highly advised.

Maneuvering Under Power is NauticEd's most popular course and teaches you how to maneuver your sailboat under power in diverse and challenging docking and wind conditions, allowing you to dock like a pro every time. The course includes maneuvering monohulls with single and dual rudders as well as catamarans. You'll learn how to manage your vessel in various wind directions and directions. It also includes the necessary knowledge on how to effectively do a Mediterranean Mooring used extensively in the Mediterranean.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sailor, this course is a must for anyone looking to improve their docking and maneuvering skills and avoid costly mistakes. Enroll now and take the first step towards becoming a competent and skilled sailor when docking and maneuvering under power.

In this Maneuvering Under Power and Docking Course you will learn:

• Beginner to advanced maneuvering skills
• How to dock a large sailboat
• How to reverse your boat into a slip with ease
• How to handle high winds from any direction when docking
• How to use prop walk to your advantage
• How not to get pushed around by the wind
• How to maneuver a sailboat in a tight marina with high winds
• Covers monohulls with dual or single rudders as well as catamarans

When you have mastered the knowledge, you can then practice as much as you like in Virtual Reality through our partnership App with MarineVerse on Meta Quest 2.

We guarantee both your satisfaction AND Lifetime access to any sailing course you buy from us!

More About the NauticEd Maneuvering Under Power and Docking Online Course

• Learn how to dock and maneuver sailboats like a pro! This online course gives you the theory, practical advice, and strategies to dock in any condition.
• Contains 27 practical exercises in a PDF download to complete on the water
• The theory portion will take about 4 hours to complete
• Take as long as you need to complete the course
• Return as many times as you like to brush up
• Is a prerequisite for the NauticEd Rank of Skipper
• Adds the Maneuvering Under Power Endorsement to your Sailing Certificate
• View an excerpt of the Maneuvering a Sailboat under Power Sailing

• You gain access online via browser or offline via our courses App on iOS or Android. Visit our Sailing Apps page after purchase. Both online and App versions sync together seamlessly.

Buy this Maneuvering Under Power course as a  hardcopy paper book from our Amazon Store . Videos, animations, and links are included in the book using QR codes.

Maneuvering a sailboat under power is one of the most overlooked and under-taught NECESSARY skills. When sailing in open waters it's reasonably difficult to hit something so long as you have a proper watch out, radar, and navigation skills. When maneuvering around in the marina it's reasonably easy and common to hit something namely the dock or other boats. And of course, hitting something is expensive and embarrassing.

You will receive access to our interactive online sailing lesson and the real-time graded test. This $39 course will take you about 3-4 hours to complete online including the test. The practical exercises given to you will take about 2 hours to complete on the water or in Virtual Reality. This course will give you one of the best returns on investment you have ever made. $39 here now can save you thousands of $ in damage. Looking good in the Marina? - PRICELESS.

Foreword by the Author, Grant Headifen. Near the beginning of my open water sailing career, I chartered a 46 ft sailboat in St Maarten. In St Maarten, the charter base is located in a protected cove but with a tricky reef entrance. Therefore the charter base requires that a pilot come out to your boat in a speedboat, jump on board, bring the boat through the reef, and park it in the slip at the marina for you. I spent some time observing this very talented Rastafarian expertly maneuver my chartered boat into the slip. It was a maneuvering job with which I was very impressed. Why? Well, just days before I had knocked the BBQ off the back of the 46 ft sailboat because I could not maneuver the boat in a tight marina with 20 knots of side wind just as it was getting dark. I was trying to back up to a concrete wall and simultaneously lasso pilings as they went past to hold the front of the boat in place and not hit the wall. As captain, I was seeing very quickly that my open water experience was not paying off and was about to cost me, the charter company, and the insurance company a lot of money.

I remember a year later maneuvering a Beneteau 50 ft sailboat into the marina in the beautiful port of Bonifacio, Corsica. Our slip was right next to the sidewalk restaurant loaded with tourists, so it was imperative to my ego to get it right. Well, I did but actually, I still think it was really more luck than anything else. As we sat on the back of the boat celebrating a no-damage docking we watched a crew expertly maneuver their boat backward down a row of slips, turn right angles then back their boat into a tight slip, stopping perfectly. We all cheered and clapped as it was very impressive. I vowed right then and there to learn the skill.

One year later I was smiling as I maneuvered a 50 ft sailboat in a very tight harbor in Kos, Greece. You can always tell how you are doing in a busy port. If you're doing well, everyone on the other boats will be watching and will continue to drink their Gin. If you're doing bad they are all putting down their drinks and putting fenders over the side. In Greece, everyone relaxed with their Gin!

When I created the fractional ownership industry for sailors a few years later, it was obvious that a course like this needed to be developed. As a result, several thousand students have taken this course. Through 27 practical exercises, this Maneuvering Under Power course will teach you how to practice and master the skill of placing the boat wherever you want, every time in all wind conditions, with confidence. The lesson is arranged so that you can first read the material and begin to understand the theory. Each chapter also has associated practical exercises that you absolutely must perform and repeat to become an expert. The exercises are designed to get you extremely comfortable with maneuvering your boat.

Upon completion, you'll the NauticEd Maneuvering Under Power and Docking Online Course will be added to your NauticEd Sailing Resume. I'm also confident that you'll be so comfortable with maneuvering and backing your boat in a tight marina that you'll never have onlookers put down their drink and pick up a fender. You'll feel great and even if you mess it up a bit, you'll know exactly how to do it better next time. If you're hesitant about the mere $39 cost of this course, just think of the cost and embarrassment of one - just one ding into another boat. When you take this course, we guarantee you'll have less intimidation when maneuvering your boat and you'll significantly reduce damage to yours and other people's boats.

No one ever has, but if you don't think you received $39 worth of potential damage-saving value, simply contact us and we'll happily refund your investment.

In the conclusion chapter, we show you how you can access all the exercises on your mobile device and take them with you to the boat. It leads you through all the exercises you should perform on the water to learn how to maneuver and dock your sailboat under power.

Finally, I can not stress enough how important it is to engage in the optional Virtual Reality module. As with any practical skill, practicing your skills over and over is the only way to become competent. Instructions for VR are inside the course.

Please enjoy our Maneuvering a Sailboat Under Power Course (and no damage docking) bought to you by Captain Grant Headifen.

Register for the NauticEd Docking and Maneuvering a Sailboat Under Power Course now! It's Fun!

View Maneuvering Under Power Course excerpt

Student Reviews

very comprehensive...learned some great insights

Learned quite a bit of theory about maneuvering under power, particularly prop walk, catamarans, spring lines.

Learning about rudders forward of props on catamarans.

So many varied maneuvering senarios to explore and learn from !

Good insight about how sail cats and monohulls handle in various conditions and circumstances. I wish I would have taken this before our 2022 BVI sail vacation adventure…sideways maneuvering tactics would have been handy.

Great detail about potentially scary maneuvers.

informative and entertaining at the same time Examples are real life and help with better understanding the topic

Learned a few new ways of thinking about maneuvering under power.

Interactive examples

I learned a ton!

Very complete in information

Covered all possible situations.

Excerpt from the course

Reversing a boat has become quite a favorite of mine now and fun to teach. Please don't just give these exercisers lip service. Actually, get out and do the exercises and - who cares if others are watching - you'll be able to out back and outmaneuver them anytime after this. It's a practiced skill that you'll be glad you did next time you're in a tight marina in some exotic place with 20 knots of wind on the side and everyone is watching you. The question is - will they be nervous or impressed - it's up to you.

This exercise should take about 45 minutes and is really fun to do. Please actually do it rather than just read it. You'll learn so much and be incredibly confident afterward. It's more effective to do this on a windy day. Pick a buoy or ideally two that are about 5 boat lengths apart that are out away from the marina and, of course, during the exercises keep a good watch out for traffic.

Even if you try it the other way to counteract the prop walk - in high enough winds your bow will still be blown downwind.

Other Sailing Courses that you might enjoy:

Qualified Crew Member Sailing Course Coastal Navigation Sailing Course

Sea talk testimonials

Just finished 7 days bvi bareboating a Lagoon 440 catamaran. Could not have done it, or even tried it, without your excellent training. Thank you for your help. Charles B , Student - Ohio

Trusted by the world's leading sailing companies

How nauticed works.

• Sailing Courses
• SLC - Sailing License
• Sailing Vacations
• Sailing Instructors
• Practical Courses
• Fighting Childhood Cancer
• Free Courses Signup
• Gift a Sailing Course
• Sailing Opportunities
• Sailing Licenses and Certifications
• About the Sailing Certifications
• Sailing Blog & Helpful Articles
• NauticEd Podcast Series
• Yacht Charter Resources
• School Signup
• Instructor Signup
• Affiliate Signup
• Boat Sharing Software
• Sailing Industry Services
• Support & Contact
• Privacy Policy

• Private Sailing Courses
• Fast Track to Cruising
• Learn to Sail Certification Courses
• Fast Track to Sailing
• Family Learn to Sail Programs
• Sailing Lessons and Sailing Rides
• Small Sailboat Cruising Course
• Online Learn to Sail Course
• Docking Refresher Course on a Catamaran or Monohull
• Fast Track to Monohull Cruising
• Live Aboard Cruising Courses
• Bareboat Charter Courses
• Catamaran Cruising Courses
• IPC Prep With Cruising Certification & Catamaran Endorsement
• Catamaran Endorsement & Refresher
• Boat Handling & Docking
• Women-Only Sailing Programs
• Navigation Courses
• Performance Sailing Courses
• Fast Track to Sailboat Racing Courses
• Performance Racing Clinics
• Coastal Passage Making Courses
• Offshore Passage Making Courses
• Celestial Navigation Courses
• Powerboat Courses
• Sailing Certifications
• Top 10 Tips for Learning How to Sail
• Safety and Comfort Aboard
• Sails & Sail Trim
• Steering and Maneuvering
• Handling Spinnakers
• Engine Maintenance
• Become an Instructor
• How to Choose a Sailing School
• Yacht Lease Management

DOCKING UNDER POWER

In this sailboat docking video, Offshore Sailing School Founder, Steve Colgate, shows you the best way to dock under power. This simple system gives you excellent control whether you are sailing with others or single-handed. Here are some helpful hints on how to dock a sailboat:

• Set up your aft amidships spring line first
• Power into the dock very slowly
• Drop the spring line over a piling or cleat
• Power against the spring line to stay tight to the dock while you put all the other lines ashore

HOW TO SPRING OFF OF A DOCK

In this video, you learn how to use spring lines on a sailboat to get out of a tight spot when the wind is pushing your boat onto the dock. Here are some helpful hints:

• Double up on the bow line and double back on the forward spring line by running each of these lines from a bow cleat and stern cleat, around a piling on the dock, and back to the cleat again
• Put the engine in reverse and bow will pivot out
• Make sure you have someone with a roving fender at the stern to protect against hitting the dock
• As you drive forward, clear the aft-leading spring line, then the stern line, and next the bow line by releasing the top part of the line on the cleats as you drive straight forward
• Be prepared to release both ends, in case one end gets caught on the dock

GET IN TOUCH

Call us today.

888-454-7015       or    239-454-1700

Ask our experts about training, group packages, vacations, and more!

6338 Presidential Court, #201  Fort Myers, Florida 33919

SPECIALS COURSES

LOCATIONS CONTACT US

ABOUT US SAILING TIPS

[email protected] Site Map Privacy Policy

© 2024 Offshore Sailing School - Official Site. OffshoreSailing.com is managed by Offshore Sailing School.

• Privacy Policy
• Fast Track to Sailing | Beginner to Advanced in Six Days
• Fast Track to Catamaran Cruising
• Fast Track to Boat Handling & Docking
• Ultimate Cruising Course
• Coastal Navigation
• Private Courses
• Catamaran Refresher & 114 Endorsement
• Team Building Programs
• Women’s Sail Sip Spa Week in the British Virgin Islands
• Top 10 Tips Learning How to Sail
• How to Become a Sailing Instructor
• Yacht Lease Management Opportunities
• Bookstore New!
• About Sailing
• Cape Coral Marina Village
• Fort Myers Beach
• St. Petersburg
• Captiva Island
• Scrub Island
• St. Lucia & Windward Islands
• Greece Ionian Islands
• Sicily In The Aeolian Islands
• Dubrovnik-Montenegro Flotilla Cruise
• Italy’s Amalfi Coast Flotilla
• Tahiti’s Society Islands
• Team Building
• Testimonials
• SAILING TIPS
• SPECIAL EVENTS
• Offshore Sailing School Returns to Captiva Island, Florida
• Sailing – Out & About SWFL
• America’s Cup Endeavor Program Videos
• Growing Up Moorings
• Doris Colgate Sailing Clinic & Cup
• Steve Colgate Inducted Into National Sailing Hall of Fame
• OSS Student Proposes During Course
• Steve Colgate and National Sailing Hall of Fame
• St. Lucia and Windward Islands Flotilla Cruise
• Weathering Unexpected Bad Weather
• A Sailing Adventure He Still Can’t Believe Was Real
• 2016 Croatia Flotilla Cruise Diary
• Colgate 26 LP
• How We Teach
• Steve & Doris Colgate
• Steve Colgate
• Doris Colgate
• Management Team
• Employment Opportunities
• Our Mission
• Our History
• Alumni Benefits
• Awards & Accolades
• Our Philanthropy
• Certification Levels
• GET STARTED

ACTIVE STORM TRACKER Hurricane and Tropical Storm Information Learn more

Service Locator

• Angler Endorsement
• Boat Towing Coverage
• Mechanical Breakdown
• Insurance Requirements in Mexico
• Agreed Hull Value
• Actual Cash Value
• Liability Only
• Insurance Payment Options
• Claims Information
• Towing Service Agreement
• Membership Plans
• Boat Show Tickets
• BoatUS Boats For Sale
• Membership Payment Options
• Consumer Affairs
• Boat Documentation Requirements
• Installation Instructions
• Shipping & Handling Information
• Contact Boat Lettering
• End User Agreement
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Vessel Documentation
• BoatUS Foundation
• Government Affairs
• Powercruisers
• Buying & Selling Advice
• Maintenance
• Tow Vehicles
• Make & Create
• Makeovers & Refitting
• Accessories
• Electronics
• Skills, Tips, Tools
• Spring Preparation
• Winterization
• Boaters’ Rights
• Environment & Clean Water
• Boat Safety
• Navigational Hazards
• Personal Safety
• Batteries & Onboard Power
• Motors, Engines, Propulsion
• Books & Movies
• Cockpit Confessions
• Communication & Etiquette
• Contests & Sweepstakes
• Colleges & Tech Schools
• Food, Drink, Entertainment
• New To Boating
• Travel & Destinations
• Watersports
• Anchors & Anchoring
• Boat Handling
• ← Seamanship

Sail And Power Catamarans: Developing A 'Catitude'

Advertisement

Once you get the hang of it, multihulls are a blast to drive. Here's how to handle these versatile, comfortable boats — sail or power — for those considering chartering a cat.

This 43-foot cat is trimmed well for upwind sailing. But once main and boom are eased out to accommodate wind direction, the jib may create a pinched slot as jib tracks are located on cabin tops. (Photo: Privilège Catamarans/Nico Krauss)

As a freelance marine journalist with a U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master license, I get to captain dozens of boats of various designs and sizes. I'm also a cat convert from monohull boating with plenty of firsthand knowledge to share. If you're thinking of chartering or buying a cat, you'll benefit from their inherent advantages. Cats offer more room than the same-lengthmonohulls, they usually have better system access, and sailing cats may be faster in light wind because they're not dragging a heavy keel through the water.

Cats operate upright so you won't be on your ear in a blow. You can cook and sleep on a passage without "walking on the hull" like in a monohull that's heeling. You also spend more time above the waterline on a cat rather than the dreaded "down below" on a monohull.

Of course, for all the pluses, there are minuses: Finding a marina berth for a cat is difficult and expensive. Unlike monohulls that get into the groove and slice through waves when sailing upwind, cats can slap the water if the bridge deck clearance is low, or when the seas meet the underside of the bridge deck.

People who usually sail monohulls may be accustomed to being alerted to the wind rising too much by the increasing heel of the boat. If you get this amount of heeling in a cat, you may be beyond the point of no return; though this isn't as likely with many of today's heavier, wider models. Cats are not self-righting; you have to stay alert to worsening weather.

Also, unless it's a performance model with daggerboards, a cat only has mini-keels, so it won't point high and can be a bit like maneuvering a shoebox. They don't track well, tending to slip to leeward, and they tack slowly because they have to push two hulls rather than one through the eye of the wind. Finally, cats have fairly shallow rudders, so close-quarters maneuvering comes more from dual engine thrust, rather than the water flowing over the rudders — effective, but something to get used to.

An easy adjustment to position the jib out farther and improve performance is shown in this illustration.

When it comes to the emerging power-catamaran trend, driving cats under power is a straight-up joy. Their two props are set wide apart resulting in much better control and precise maneuvering in close quarters. Cats don't coast like monohulls because they don't have a keel to keep them tracking, so gliding into a dock at a shallow angle doesn't work, and neither does using propwalk to tuck in the stern. You use the engines to spin a cat in its own length or walk it sideways, both of which are easier to master than the nuances of driving a monohull.

Regardless of whether you're docking, picking up a mooring, or anchoring, always keep the boat powered up and ready to drive until you're done because you can't just push a 45-foot cat around by hand. Here are some handling tips that apply to handling both sail and power catamarans.

Don't Ding The Dock

When there's no wind, bigger sailcats also have an engine, which is needed in each hull. They aren't powered to drive as fast, but the principles are the same. Keep in mind, boats and conditions are varied, so we can only give examples here.

• Forget about the wheel when docking side-to or forward. Lock it on the centerline with the wheel lock or by leaning your body against it and maneuver using the throttles (see illustrations below). Power forward with the starboard engine, and aft with the port, and the cat moves to port and vice versa. Turn this around in your head when in reverse. Fine tune adjustments by using one engine at a time. Pause the propeller in neutral when changing directions from forward to reverse and vice-versa to give transmissions time to engage.

• Backing into a slip: Cats dock stern-to because the bows are high and it's easier to step on and off the dock via the swim platforms aft. When backing straight into a slip, come abeam, pivot 90 degrees with the engines until centered, and back in. If Med-mooring, drop anchor and pay out the rode slowly as you back with both engines. Set the anchor part way back, then keep backing and letting out rode until you're close enough to the dock to tie up the stern lines. Have fenders already tied aft to cushion the transoms. Tighten up on the anchor rode with the windlass.

Wind And Current

As with any boat, it's best to work against the current for better control.

• When departing a starboard tie-up with the current coming at the bow, put a fender and line on the starboard aft corner, power aft with the port engine, pivot, then drive out forward with both engines against the current. If the current is coming from behind, back out, putting a line and fender on the starboard bow. Power in reverse with the starboard engine, pivot, and then back out with both engines.
• Cats have high cabin tops, producing lots of windage. In tight quarters, you may need to turn more sharply when approaching a dock or line up to windward before backing in.

Picking Up A Mooring

Cats have high hulls and it's easy for the skipper to lose sight of a mooring ball before the boat is close enough for the crew to pick it up. Keep the mooring on the side where you can best see forward so you can keep an eye on the ball at all times. (Some cat helm stations are offset to one side or the other.)

• Hand signals or a headset for you and the crew make communications easier to send and receive rather than yelling.
• Have your crew pick up the mooring with a boat hook while you maneuver with the engines to keep station — easier on a cat than a monohulls, even in wind and current.
• Have lines ready by stringing one off a cleat on each hull. To do this, thread each line through the eye or loop, then back onto its cleat. Do this with both sides and adjust until the mooring sits on the centerline. This will minimize swinging and chafe, and noise in the forward cabins.

Anchoring is generally easier on a cat than a monohull. There's more room forward for crew to work, and you can keep the boat steady with the engines.

• A bridle should be preset with a line from each hull (under the trampoline) and hook or shackle in the middle. Once the anchor and chain is down, attach the bridle to the chain (usually done near the windlass) and set the hook putting the pressure on the bridle. Once set, let out enough chain to create a catenary.
• When raising anchor, take care to keep the chain in between the bows or you risk damaging the fiberglass by shaving the bottom of one or the other if you overrun the chain or lose track of where it is. Crew communication is critical.

Sail-Specific Cats

Here's how to coax the best out of a sailing catamaran:

• Big cats carry huge mainsails, so raising one typically requires an electric winch. It also may be challenging to keep full battens out of the lazyjacks that hold up the sail bag, so it can take a few people to raise a large sail. Also, there are usually multiple angles to the way halyards are run on cats with flybridges, resulting in friction. So "dropping" the mainsail can be more like "pulling" it down. Attach a messenger-type line to the mainsail head so it comes down easier.
• Reefing can be a guessing game because you don't feel a cat being overpowered like you do a monohull. Depending on the direction of sail and the sea state, you may be able to reef a little later with the wind a few knots higher — an individual call.
• Cat headsail tracks are typically on the cabin top making the sail curve back on itself, creating a wind break when it's sheeted in. A trick is to bring a spare line from the jib clue out to a cleat on the side deck to open up the slot to let air flow through. Check for chafe on the cabin and don't forget to release it before tacking.
• The majority of multihulls are built to sail on a beam or broad reach, and that's where they're the happiest. Dead downwind, cats shimmy a little making wing-on-wing sailing tricky, not all that different from monohulls. For more comfort, choose one broad reach or the other, then jibe when necessary.
• Cats with daggerboards can point higher and track better because, like monohulls, they have an appendage (or two) down low in the water for a better center of lateral resistance. Daggerboards are mostly used when sailing upwind, and it helps to keep the leeward board lower than the windward one. Sailing downwind with the boards lowered could create a tripping hazard, especially in rough seas where it's possible to stuff the bows into the wave ahead. When motorsailing, a trick to saving fuel and pointing higher is to run only the leeward engine for a little pointing assist.

Next time you have an opportunity to test drive a power or sailing cat, or to charter one on your next holiday, try it! The learning curve is so quick, it's really fun, and before you know it, you, too, may convert to being a cat person!

Catamaran Brands

You can further explore the array of catamarans, big and small, power and sail, by visiting any of these leading manufacturers.

• Aquila Power Catamarans
• Aspen Power Catamarans
• Fountaine-Pajot
• Horizon Power Catamarans
• Leopard Catamarans
• Nautitech 47 Power
• Balance Catamarans
• Fountaine Pajot
• Outremer Catamarans
• Seawind Catamarans

Related Articles

The truth about ceramic coatings for boats.

Our editor investigates the marketing claims of consumer-grade ceramic coatings.

Fine-Tune Your Side Scan Fishfinder

Take your side-scanning fishfinder off auto mode, and you’ll be spotting your prey from afar in no time

DIY Boat Foam Decking

Closed-cell foam flooring helps make boating more comfortable. Here’s how to install it on your vessel

Click to explore related articles

Zuzana Prochazka

Contributor, BoatUS Magazine

Zuzana Prochazka is a freelance journalist specializing in writing, editing, and photography in boating and travel publications. She writes for a dozen boating magazines and websites and a growing list of travel publications. She enjoys combining her passions, which include seeing the world, sailing the oceans, and sharing her experiences through the written word. She holds a U.S. Coast Guard 100 Master license.

BoatUS Magazine Is A Benefit Of BoatUS Membership

Membership Benefits Include:

Subscription to the print version of BoatUS Magazine

4% back on purchases from West Marine stores or online at WestMarine.com

Discounts on fuel, transient slips, repairs and more at over 1,200 businesses

Deals on cruises, charters, car rentals, hotel stays and more…

All for only $25/year!

We use cookies to enhance your visit to our website and to improve your experience. By continuing to use our website, you’re agreeing to our cookie policy.

• All Blog Posts
• Sailing Education Posts
• Boating Knowledge
• Free Sailor Toolkit
• Sailing Vacations Posts
• Yacht Charter Guides
• Join a Sailing Flotilla
• Sailing Adventure
• FREE Virtual Reality Sailing Training & Racing
• 2 Free Courses >
• Online Courses
• Vacations & Charters
• Schools & Instructors
• International Sailing License

Maneuvering a Catamaran Advice

How to dock a catamaran.

Here is an email we received from a student asking about how to dock a Catamaran.

>>>>>>

Good day Grant and team,

Your Catamaran Sailing Confidence course is great thank you and achieved for me the confidence you designed it to do. I am bare boat chartering a catamaran in the Whitsunday Islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia in a few weeks and, while I have reasonable keel boat experience, your course gave me the complete picture of catamaran sailing. Thank you.

I have one question which I would appreciate you answering: How do you dock a catamaran side on to a dock, for example, at the very end of a marina arm or alongside a long jetty?

Section 2.1 of your course explains manoeuvring under power (spin; slow forwards turn; vector) and sections 2.5.1 and 2.5.2 discuss getting out and coming back to the dock. However, other than the repetition of the vectoring animation, I don’t see an explicit description of how to dock the catamaran side-on to a dock.

Would you recommend vectoring and if so, where would you position the boat relative to the jetty (i.e. how far away and where relative to the two yachts you could be docking between)?

Alternatively, would you recommend approaching the dock forwards at a shallow angle, turn the wheel hard away from the berth when the bow nearest the dock is within (half?) a boat length of the dock and then, and when the bow nearly touches the dock vector the boat to the dock (or spin the stern of the hull closest to the dock towards the dock)?

I would value hearing your views which I will be putting into practice in the Hamilton Island Marina at the end of August. Thanks very much.

Kind regards,

>>>>>>>>>

Kevin here is our answer. Dock the Catamaran exactly as you would a monohull. We’ve included an animation below of how we do it on a tight space. The advantage to docking a catamaran is the extreme awesome ability to maneuver. You don’t have to worry about propwalk either. Just steer the boat in at an angle.  As the bow gets close, round the boat out to glide parallel with the dock and engage reverse to stop the boat. As below you can use springing with a dock line forward to drive the aft in. But you don’t need to lend on the spring as much because with the bow held by the spring the aft will naturally spin in with engines engaged opposite.

As with all our recommendations on maneuvering, try this out in deep water next to a floating buoy.

Thanks so much for the compliment on the catamaran sailing course – we get a lot and it is one of our most popular courses. :)

My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

You might also like

TWEET ABOUT

FIGHT CHILDHOOD CANCER

NauticEd is a fully recognized education and certification platform for sailing students combining online and on-the-water real instruction ( and now VR ). NauticEd offers +24 online courses , a free sailor's toolkit that includes 2 free courses, and six ranks of certification – all integrated into NauticEd’s proprietary platform. The USCG and NASBLA recognize NauticEd as having met the established American National Standards. Learn more at www.nauticed.org .

The NauticEd Vacations team are Expert Global Yacht Charter Agents – when you book a sailing vacation or bareboat charter through NauticEd, we don’t charge you a fee – we often save you money since we can compare prices from all yacht charter companies. PLUS, we can give you advice on which destination or charter company will suit your needs best. Inquire about a Sailing Vacation or Charter .

Online Sailing Courses Sailing Vacations | Charters Practical Sailing Courses Sailing Certification | License

Sign up for 2 FREE Sailing Courses Try sailing in Virtual Reality! Gift a Friend a Sailing Course Sailing Events | Opportunities

About NauticEd Contact Us NauticEd Support Privacy Policy

• Find A School
• Certifications
• North U Sail Trim
• Inside Sailing with Peter Isler
• Docking Made Easy
• Study Quizzes
• Bite-sized Lessons
• Fun Quizzes
• Sailing Challenge

ASA 114, Cruising Catamaran

Able to skipper an auxiliary-powered sailing cruising catamaran of approximately 30 to 45 feet in length during a multi-day liveaboard cruise upon inland or coastal waters in moderate to heavy winds (up to 30 knots) and sea conditions. Knowledge of catamaran structure, components and features, performance under sail and power, boat systems, seamanship and safety, heavy weather operation, and emergency response.

Ready to get started?

Asa 114, cruising catamaran standards, catamaran terminology, 1. identify and describe the functions of the following terms and structural components:.

• Full Bridgedeck
• Partial Bridgedeck
• Daggerboard
• Escape hatch
• Twin engine
• Mainsail Roach
• Dolphin Striker
• Seagull Striker

2. Identify and describe the functions of the following rigging terms and components:

• Fractional rig
• Diamond stays

Catamaran Features & Performance

3. describe the accommodations of a typical catamaran and their effect on comfort and safety., 4. compare differences in operating and living aboard a monohull and catamaran of similar length., 5. describe the impact that a catamaran’s deck structures may have on visibility from the helm., 6. describe stability differences between a ballasted monohull keelboat and a catamaran., 7. describe load-carrying characteristics of a catamaran and how weight distribution affects safety and performance., 8. describe shoal draft keels on a catamaran and the impact on cruise planning and sailing., 9. describe the typical installation of daggerboards and how they affect performance., 10. describe catamaran engine placement and the effect on performance and balance., 11. describe maneuverability under power of a twin-engine catamaran., 12. describe the effects of windage on close-quarters maneuverability under power., 13. describe the effects of windage on sailing performance., 14. list differences in sailing performance between a monohull and a catamaran of similar size., 15. describe how to use the jib to counteract the weather-vane effect of a catamaran’s mainsail when tacking., 16. list various sail combinations utilized on a catamaran and how they affect the center of effort., 17. list differences between the mainsails of a monohull keelboat and a catamaran., 18. describe indicators for and conditions under which a catamaran’s sails should be reefed., catamaran systems, 19. list differences in the types of boat systems typically installed on monohulls versus catamarans., 20. describe freshwater and fuel storage tank placement and precautions on a catamaran., 21. describe battery-charging options, including alternators, shore power and generator, and how they affect twin-engine catamarans., 22. describe options for gear stowage and proper stowing procedures., 23. describe the features of a catamaran galley and methods of working safely in the galley., 24. compare options for hoisting, carrying and towing a dinghy., 25. describe methods and limitations of rafting a catamaran with other boats., 26. describe the use of a bridle with a single bow anchor or fixed mooring., 27. describe the following multiple-anchor mooring procedures on a catamaran and the circumstances under which they could be used:.

• Fore & Aft Moor
• Bahamian Moor
• Mediterranean Moor

Heavy Weather Operation & Emergency Response

28. describe conditions that may contribute to capsizing a catamaran and practices to avoid capsizing., 29. describe post-capsize response procedures., 30. describe where and how to attach jacklines and tethered safety harnesses on a catamaran., 31. describe how the structure and performance of a catamaran under both sail and power affects the recovery of a person in the water (a.k.a. man overboard or mob)., 32. describe heavy weather sailing practices applied to a catamaran, including:.

• Lying a-hull
• Downwind speed control

33. Describe actions to be taken if one or both engines fail.

34. identify the emergency steering tiller and indicate where it attaches to the controlling rudder post., pre-departure, 35. locate and check the condition of all required and asa recommended equipment., 36. perform a routine vessel inspection, ensuring that all systems and equipment are in working order., under power, 37. depart safely from a dock when the approximate wind direction is (a) parallel to the dock and (b) perpendicular to the dock., 38. demonstrate the proper use of spring lines to pivot the catamaran during dock departure and return., 39. ensure vessel and crew readiness and use the auxiliary engines to bring the catamaran smoothly to a controlled stop next to a parallel dock or into a slip; then secure the vessel using appropriate lines and fenders., 40. make way ahead and turn the catamaran in a tight circle, comparing the turning radius between three different engine gear selections:.

• Both engines in forward gear
• One engine in forward, the other in neutral
• One engine in forward, the other in reverse

41. Make way astern and turn the catamaran in a tight circle.

42. steer a straight, controlled course astern for at least five boat lengths., 43. approach a mark under power upwind, downwind, and with wind abeam, in each case stopping the catamaran within 10 feet of the mark., 44. approach a mooring buoy (or suitable substitute if no mooring is available), attach to the mooring using a bridle, then cast off from the mooring and get underway., 45. maneuver the catamaran under power in a confined space, compensating for wind and current effects., 46. demonstrate the correct actions to be taken while under power to recover a mob., 47. demonstrate two of the following anchor/mooring methods as appropriate to local conditions, using correct procedures including hand signals, safety in handling ground tackle, proper operation of windlass and use of a bridle. raise anchor(s) and get underway using correct procedures..

• Single bow anchor
• Fore and aft moor

48. Sail a steady compass course, varying the heading no more than +/- 10 degrees, with sails trimmed properly.

49. demonstrate proper usage of all lines and sail controls (halyards, sheets, traveler, boom vang, outhaul, downhaul, etc.) that are available on the catamaran to obtain maximum performance and comfort., 50. demonstrate proper combined usage of the mainsheet and traveler for upwind and downwind sailing., 51. demonstrate how to get out of “irons.”, 52. perform each of the following maneuvers separately and under control, giving appropriate commands and ensuring proper sail trim:, 53. hold a steady course on each of the following points of sail, ensuring proper sail trim:.

• Close Hauled
• Close Reach
• Broad Reach

54. Luff sails while sailing on a close reach at maximum safe speed for the conditions, noting the length of time required for the catamaran to come to a stop. Re-trim sails and note the length of time required to accelerate to maximum safe speed.

55. demonstrate the correct use of a jibe preventer., 56. demonstrate proper reefing procedures while under sail or hove-to., 57. demonstrate the proper actions to be taken while under sail to recover a mob, using two different recovery methods., what's next.

Congratulations! You passed your ASA 114, Cruising Catamaran so which ASA certifications should you take next?

RECOMMENDED ENDORSEMENTS

Once you have passed your ASA 114, Cruising Catamaran you may find the following Endorsement Courses to be beneficial

• Learn To Sail
• Mobile Apps
• Online Courses
• Upcoming Courses
• Sailor Resources
• ASA Log Book
• Bite Sized Lessons
• Knots Made Easy
• Catamaran Challenge
• Sailing Vacations
• Sailing Cruises
• Charter Resources
• International Proficiency Certificate
• Find A Charter
• All Articles
• Sailing Tips
• Sailing Terms
• Destinations
• Environmental
• Initiatives
• Instructor Resources
• Become An Instructor
• Become An ASA School
• Member / Instructor Login
• Affiliate Login

• THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
• Email Newsletter
• Yacht Walkthroughs
• Destinations
• Electronics
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Discover the Top Power Catamarans for 2024

• By Yachting Staff
• Updated: September 10, 2024

Power catamarans have seen a surge in popularity, growing both in size and appeal. These cruise-focused yachts offer homelike comfort, fuel efficiency and user-friendly operation, making them a favorite among avid travelers. Their popularity extends to the bareboat charter market for the same reasons.

In this article, we explore the world’s top power catamarans, ranging from a 36-footer ideal for a cruising couple to a 78-footer perfect for entertaining friends and family. The propulsion options are diverse, including outboards, diesel inboards, hybrids, and even all-solar setups.

Top Luxury Power Catamarans

The following power catamarans are all vessels we’ve reviewed. They are listed in no particular order.

• Fountaine Pajot MY44 : A family-oriented cat suitable for long-range cruising and aimed at owner-operators. 
• Silent Yachts 60 : This is a catamaran that can cruise comfortably for long distances using emissions-free solar-electric propulsion.
• Horizon PC74 : With interior and deck space like a much larger vessel, the PC74 is perfect for cruising the Bahamas and Caribbean.
• Aquila 36 : This beefy 36-footer is an outboard-powered, express-cruiser-style catamaran.
• Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat : A spacious design, this vessel fits the volume of a 130-foot-long monohull into just 78 feet of length overall. 
• Horizon PC68 : This cat has a stable ride, long range, volume to spare and intriguing layout options.
• Two Oceans 555 : An elegantly simple yet luxurious 55-foot custom with the space and amenities of a much larger vessel.
• Lagoon 630 : From its open salon to its spacious decks, the Lagoon is a comfortable and luxurious platform.
• Fountaine Pajot MY5 : A midsize cruiser with serious big-boat space for family and friends. 
• Prestige Yachts M8 : The voluminous 65-footer lets owners customize onboard spaces.
• Aquila 47 Molokai : Calling all anglers: This cat has 60-plus-knot speed and is set up for serious bluewater adventure.

Fountaine Pajot MY44

The  Fountaine Pajot MY44 , a creation of Italian architect Pierangelo Andreani and French designer Daniel Andrieu, has a main deck that’s open from the aft-deck seating all the way forward to the starboard helm station. The sense of spaciousness is significant, for several reasons. First, four glass panels aft can all slide to port, creating an indoor-outdoor space with the aft deck and salon. In the salon, 32-inch-high windows extend for 12 feet down the sides of the yacht, with three sections per side, bringing in natural light along with the three forward panes that comprise the windshield. Finally, 6-foot-6-inch headroom provides vertical clearance, with a 21-foot-7-inch beam that adds interior roominess while keeping the yacht stable.

Quick Specifications

Silent Yachts 60

Solar panels, ocean-crossing range and self-sufficiency define the electric Silent-Yachts 60 power catamaran. If there was any question that the “Tesla moment” has arrived in yachting, the Silent 60 clearly provides a positive response. Consider, for a moment, crossing oceans in silence at 5 to 6 knots without consuming a drop of fuel and never needing to plan your course between fuel stops. Imagine sitting at anchor and running the air conditioning all night, not to mention all the galley appliances plus the washer-dryer, without the hum or fumes from a genset.

Horizon PC74

As founder and director of The Powercat Company, a Horizon Power Catamarans distributor, Stuart Hegerstrom had long believed that catamaran builders needed to design their yachts to more stylish standards.

“The boats were very boxy,” he says, based on his years of experience with cats in the charter market. He and his partner, Richard Ford, asked Horizon to produce models that had high-end finishes and looked good inside and out.

The Horizon team brought in mega-yacht designer JC Espinosa to work with its own craftsmen. The result aboard the  Horizon PC74  is a catamaran with exterior styling, layout and functionality that should appeal to private and charter owners alike.

The Aquila 36  is a departure from her sisterships in that she is an outboard-powered, express-cruiser-style catamaran, but she also adheres to MarineMax’s philosophies.

With a single main living level from bow to stern and a beam of 14 feet 7 inches, the Aquila 36 is like a bowrider on steroids. She has seating that can handle 20 adults for outings and barbecues, and there are two staterooms below, one in each hull, for family weekending. The staterooms have nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads, stowage and 6-foot-6-inch headroom.

Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat

Lagoon is a division of Groupe Beneteau, the world’s largest builder of sailing yachts, and the  Lagoon Seventy 8 Powercat  is a developmental sistership of its Seventy 7 super sailing cat. The Seventy series yachts are built at Construction Navale Bordeaux in France, which had to add a new yard to construct these catamarans because they require separate stern molds for the power and sail versions.

Horizon PC68

Multihull yachts ride differently than monohulls, often counteracting the sea’s motion for a smoother, more stable ride. On the Horizon PC68 , sharp hull entries make head seas seem gentle, and a Humphree stabilization system with blades reduces roll. Horizon uses SCRIMP construction for resin saturation that maximizes strength with an 111,112-pound displacement. And with a 5-foot-4-inch draft, the PC68 invites island cruising.

Two Oceans 555

With 27-knot speed, house-like volume, an on-deck master and top-tier tech, the Two Oceans 555 is a formidable power catamaran. Dave Jirikovic of HMY Yachts was on a quest. The sales broker was looking for the meanest, nastiest patch of Gulf Stream he could find to show a potential client what the Two Oceans 555 power cat could handle. And just as he had intended to show us, the broad-shouldered power cat didn’t even notice. He even dropped the single-lever throttles back to idle and left the 25-foot-wide Two Oceans 555 beam-on to another set of square-edged seas. The 55-footer brushed that off too. Jirikovic tried quartering into the seas—never a happy angle for catamarans—and the yacht drowsed through them.

Fitted with the optional twin 300-horsepower Volvo Penta D4 diesels, the  Lagoon 630 MY  burns only 1.64 gph total at 6 knots, giving a theoretical range of 2,952 nautical miles with standard tankage of 793 gallons. Hull No. 1 had an optional 502-gallon tank, giving it transatlantic range.

Luxury, stability and economy are all hallmarks of Lagoon’s return to luxury motor yachts. If you can take a ride, it will be worth your time.

Fountaine Pajot MY5

The flybridge deck on the Fountaine Pajot MY5 is a standout feature, offering virtually unobstructed 360-degree ocean views and an elevated beach club vibe. Aft of the off-center starboard helm is a spacious area perfect for entertaining, complete with a wet bar, refrigeration center, and ample seating. It’s the most popular space aboard according to the builder. And if the weather turns for the worse, a second helm station in the saloon allows the skipper to pilot the MY5 in climate-controlled comfort.

Prestige Yachts M8

How fitting it was that Prestige Yachts introduced its new M-Line flagship, the M8 , at Portopiccolo, a picturesque yachting village outside Trieste, Italy. Formerly a quarry, the cliff-side area had been chiseled into a clean site rife with eye-catching vistas, much like the French builder’s 65-foot power catamaran and its nearly 3,000 square feet of usable real estate.

Aquila 47 Molokai

With every boat, there’s an origin story. In the case of the Aquila 47 Molokai power catamaran, it starts with MarineMax, which saw people renting boats for bareboat charters. MarineMax Vacations was born. After experimenting with several production yachts, the company decided to build its own: the Aquila line, designed for charter as well as for sale to owner-operators.

• More: Aquila Boats , Fountaine Pajot , Horizon Power Catamarans , Lagoon , Lagoon Catamarans , Power Catamarans , Prestige Yachts , Silent-Yachts , Two Oceans , Yachts
• More Yachts

Austin Parker Launches Two New Yacht Series

Customize Your Ride: The Argos Nautic GT14 RIB Tender

Alia Yachts to Debut SAN Superyacht in Monaco

Coming Next Year: Tiara Yachts 56 LS

A Standout New Brand

Low-Hour Cruiser: Sea Ray L550 For Sale

Caribbean Cruiser: Sanlorenzo SL72 For Sale

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding