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Dec 14, 2023
less than a min
When selecting a fishing boat, anglers face a significant choice that can impact their experience on the water. The type of boat you choose - be it a catamaran or a traditional monohull - plays a pivotal role in defining your fishing adventures. Both catamaran and monohull boats have distinct features and advantages, and understanding these differences is key to finding a vessel that aligns with your fishing style and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just beginning to navigate the world of fishing, we'll help guide delves into the nuances of catamaran and monohull fishing boats.
What are catamaran fishing boats.
Catamaran fishing boats, with their distinctive multihull design, are gaining acclaim among anglers for their exceptional stability and comfort, particularly in challenging sea conditions. The dual-hull structure of these boats not only reduces water resistance, leading to improved fuel efficiency but also ensures a smoother ride. For instance, the "Offshore Fishing Catamarans," which typically range from 20 to 40 feet in length, are equipped with features tailored for serious anglers, including fish boxes, live wells, and rod holders. These boats are adept at handling rough offshore waters, making them ideal for pursuing species like king mackerel or wahoo.
Design : Power catamarans , designed for offshore use, are equipped with features like fish boxes, live wells, and rod holders, essential for serious anglers.
Handling Rough Waters : They excel in handling choppy offshore waters, making them suitable for trolling species like king mackerel or wahoo.
Versatility : Not limited to saltwater, they are also effective in large freshwater systems like the Great Lakes.
Comfort for Extended Trips : Many models offer cabins for overnight stays, enhancing their appeal for longer fishing expeditions.
Average Length : 20 to 40 feet
Propulsion : Twin outboard engines
Capacity : 8 to 10 people
Hull Type : Multi-hull
Another notable example is the "Small Fishing Catamaran," averaging between 8 and 14 feet. These smaller variants offer enhanced stability and buoyancy compared to traditional flat-bottom boats and are particularly suitable for shallow water fishing. Their lightweight and easy-to-transport nature, combined with the option for paddle or small outboard motor propulsion, make them a great entry-level choice for new boaters.
Ideal for Beginners : These boats offer an entry-level option with better stability and buoyancy than flat-bottom boats.
Shallow Draft : Their shallow draft allows easy beaching and shore pull-up, ideal for coastal fishing.
Average Length : 8 to 14 feet
Propulsion : Outboard engine or paddle
Capacity : 1 to 3 people
Both types of catamarans exemplify the blend of practical design and angler-centric features, making them a compelling choice for a wide range of fishing activities.
Monohull fishing boats, revered as the traditional choice in the angling world, have long been the backbone of the fishing community. Characterised by their single-hull design, these boats offer a classic approach to fishing, blending time-honoured maritime traditions with modern advancements. Monohulls are known for their straightforward handling and predictable performance, making them a familiar and reliable option for many anglers. Their design allows for deep V-hulls that can cut through waves, offering a smooth ride and a distinct fishing experience.
Space Utilisation : Monohulls offer a larger single space below the waterline, allowing for bigger cabins and storage areas.
Roll Period : They have a slower roll period, which means the motion is less abrupt compared to some catamarans.
Predictability : Handling characteristics are more consistent and predictable.
Variety and Resale : There's a broader selection of monohulls available, and they tend to be easier to resell.
Stability Issues : They can lean significantly with weight shifts on the deck.
Bowrise and Steering : Monohulls experience noticeable bowrise when coming onto plane and may exhibit bow steering.
Handling and maneuverability.
Catamarans are highly manoeuvrable due to their dual engines and hulls, offering better control, which is crucial when fishing in tight spots or near structures.
Monohulls have predictable handling, but their performance can vary significantly based on the design and sea conditions.
Catamarans provide more living space, making them suitable for extended trips and anglers who prioritise comfort.
Monohulls have more space below the waterline, which can be advantageous for storage and cabin size.
Catamarans, with their shallow draft, allow access to areas that might be challenging for some monohulls.
Monohulls might have limitations in shallow waters but often perform better in deep sea conditions.
Catamarans are generally more fuel-efficient, but they may have higher maintenance costs due to their dual systems.
Monohulls are traditionally less expensive to purchase and maintain but might not offer the same fuel efficiency as catamarans.
The decision between a catamaran and a monohull fishing boat should be based on your specific fishing style, preferred locations, and comfort requirements. Catamarans are ideal for anglers seeking stability and comfort in various water conditions, while monohulls are suitable for those who prefer traditional handling and may not require extensive space. Ultimately, the right choice will enhance your fishing experience, ensuring safety, efficiency, and enjoyment on the water. Whether you're drawn to the traditional charm of monohulls or the stability of catamarans, TheBoatDB provides a user-friendly platform to assess each option side-by-side. Visit TheBoatDB to delve deeper into the specifics of each type and discover the boat that perfectly aligns with your fishing style and needs.
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Which is better, a monohull or a catamaran.
This question gets asked a lot in sailing. Especially if you are looking to take your friends or family out for the week: which will be better, a catamaran (aka cat) or monohull (aka mono)? The short answer is it depends what sort of experience you are looking for. Let's explore this further.
Monohulls are boats that have one hull. They are the classic sailing yachts that you see old black & white photos of, racing off Newport or Cowes.
Catamarans on the other hand have two hulls. They tend to be newer, and are said to be less traditional, although some of the earliest sailing boats ever developed may well have been catamarans.
Image: monohull (left) and catamaran (right)
Now that we understand the difference between catamarans and monohulls, let's look at attributes that are important in sailing. Once we have explained these, we can look at how each boat-type deals with them:
For obvious reasons, you want to have a stable boat. Monohulls are a bit like a roly-poly doll, where when pushed over, they tend to right themselves. That is unless they reach what is termed the "angle of vanishing stability" or AVS. Catamarans deal with stability in a different way.
Catamarans tend to be much more stable in most conditions, but should they capsize, they quickly become stable, albeit upside down.
Nevertheless capsizing is such a rare occurrence that "stability" here really means comfort when sailing.
Angle of Vanishing Stability (AVS) graph, image thanks RYA: rya.org.uk
Your boat needs to strike a balance between sailing well and being comfortable to spend time in. The layout of the boat is important in this regard: what level it is on, how large it is, and how square the space is.
Lagoon 450 Living Area. Image thanks vivisail.com
The draft of a boat is how far in the water it goes. "How much does she draw" means "what is the minimum depth of water that this boat needs so she doesn't go aground". Monohulls by definition require a keel, a heavy piece of iron or lead that goes deep into the water. Catamarans do not require this, and therefore tend to have a "shallower draft".
Draft and Freeboard explained. Image thanks thecampfirecollective.com
Being able to easily maneuver your boat is clearly an advantage in tight situations, such as when docking in a crowded marina. Both monohulls and catamarans have their pros and cons here, which will be explained further below.
Maneuverability, image thanks Cruising World (cruisingworld.com)
The speed of a sailboat is not as simple as for a motorboat. The angle of the wind has a large effect on the speed of a sailboat. Some boats can sail faster when close to the wind - monohulls normally fall into this category - while others can sail very fast when the wind is on their side (aka a beam reach) - catamarans usually like this sort of "reaching" sailing.
F50 catamaran in the fastest sailing competition in the world. Image thanks SailGP and James Wierzbowski
Having natural light and a decent view can make the living space much more comfortable. With monohulls, most of the living space is "down below" whereas for catamarans, most of the living area happens "up" in the saloon which is located between and above the two hulls. This creates two different environments. One person's "cozy" is another person's "claustrophobic". Just the same, one person's "light and open atmosphere" is another person's "soulless". So there is a fair degree of taste to this particular aspect.
Interior of the incredible Nautor Swan 48, image thanks Nautor Swan
By this we mean the feel of the boat responding to the wind as she slices through the water. Some people sail for this feeling, while others simply sail as an ecological, efficient way to move from A to B. Monohulls and catamarans offer very different visceral experiences here.
WallyCento Tango sails off Monaco, image thanks Gilles Martin-Raget/Wally Yachts
In breaking down the pros and cons of monohulls and catamarans, we found that a pro for one was a con for another. With that in mind, we think it is more helpful to list the pros of each, so you only read it once. Here goes:
1. catamarans are inherently stable..
Two hulls provides a wide base, which means in most sea states, less "bobbing". Every now and then, when the space between wave tops is a certain distance, the cat can lurch. But this is more the exception than the rule.
Great illustration of reduced rolling on a catamaran, image thanks aeroyacht.com
Here are some more pros of stability:
Apologies for resolution, a brilliant graph on catamaran stability, thanks sailingcatamarans.com
Catamarans generally have much more living space in the main salon, galley and cockpit, and in the cabins. This can allow for greater privacy when chartering with friends or children, as the two sleeping areas (one in each hull) are separated by the living area. Here are some more pros of space:
Interior of a Lagoon 620, image thanks Indigo Bay Yacht Charters
On a monohull, almost all living space on a is at least partially below the water line, which limits light and view, and can lead to claustrophobia in some. Catamarans on the other hand, sit above the water line. In addition:
The lack of keel on a catamaran results in a shallower draft, allowing to anchor in shallower water, which is especially valuable around reefs in the tropics.
Shallow draft of a catamaran, image thanks aeroyacht.com
Because catamarans have two engines and two rudders, maneuverability in tight spaces is improved, with most cats being able to turn 360º within the length of the boat.
Without the need for a heavy keel, catamarans are lighter than an equivalent monohull. That, plus the fact that they keep their sails perpendicular to the wind, means they sail faster than monohulls, especially on a run or broad reach.
The magnificent HH66 catamaran, image thanks Sail Magazine
Without the need for a lead-weighted keel, catamarans are not just lighter and faster, they are also harder to sink. Monohulls have been known to "lose their keel", by hitting something such as a semi-submerged container or even a whale. When this happens, the boat will tend to sink within minutes. Catamarans do not have a keel to lose, which means in this (admittedly very rare, blue-water) event, catamarans come out trumps.
Most catamarans have a trampoline or net at the front. This allows for spacious and comfortable cuddling under the stars - not to be underrated.
1. monohulls look great..
You can’t beat a monohull sailboat for good looks. Classic, sleek, beautiful, there is a timeless beauty to monohull sailboats.
Catamarans on the other hand have a “non-traditional” aesthetic that some consider to be a little harsher on the eyes. Let's face it, many are downright ugly.
Do you love the old photos of well-dressed people sailing their immaculate wooden monohulls in beautiful surroundings? If you answer yes to this question, take a good look at monohulls. That romance and tradition is still there.
Due to the sheer volume of monohulls made over the last century, there are many more options for a boat that meets your individual lifestyle, personal aesthetic, or budget.
Due to their keel, monohulls can sail higher into the wind than most catamarans. Some of the more exotic catamarans have daggerboards which serve the same purpose as a keel, and therefore improve windward performance substantially. However 95% of cruising cats (ie. those you can charter) do not have daggerboards. Furthermore:
Monohull sailing upwind, image thanks Sail Magazine
This factor (and lower cost) is why most sail training happens on monohulls. If you have too much sail out for the wind, your overpowered monohull will heel over and become a pain to sail, before anything breaks.
On a catamaran you get less feedback at the wheel, which if you are not being very attentive can get you into trouble in big winds.
Then there is the visceral joy of "feeling sailing". A monohull will heel (meaning it is designed to tip over anywhere from 10º to say 50º) whereas a catamaran won't. While their increased heeling can be a performance disadvantage, it can also be an advantage as it is a lot of fun.
While they can accelerate faster, catamarans also decelerate much quicker, and as such can have a harder time maintaining momentum through a tack. It depends what sort of sailing you are after. If it is about enjoying being outside, and not so much about the sailing itself, then a catamaran is fine. But if you are out there sailing for sailing's sake, then you will probably find more enjoyment on a monohull.
While they may rock more in a side to side motion than their equivalent catamaran, monohulls tend to swing less at anchor.
Libertas on a mooring ball. Monohulls exhibit less "sailing on their anchor" when moored.
The above shows that there are no clear winners to the Catamaran vs. Monohull debate. At Sailing Virgins we teach and cruise on both monohulls and catamarans. If you have to make a decision yourself it really comes down to:
We hope that helps your decision making. If you would ever like to know more, if you become a Sailing Virgins Patron, you can take part in any of our once-per-month live Q&A sessions, where absolutely any sailing-related question if yours can be asked and answered. Patron support starts from as little as $3 per episode. Click here for more information.
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We prefer catamarans, now that we have tried both. But we strongly recommend that you start with a monohull, if possible.
We cruised on a monohull for three years (two of which full-time), and then switched to a catamaran for two more years of sailing and living aboard .
We have years of boating experience and I spent lots of time making this post as helpful as possible, and fully human-generated .
All of our boat-life posts – Boat Life @ No Texting & Tacking
Here is what we loved the most and the least about our catamaran:
I am covering each in greater detail in this post, so keep reading.
Here is what we loved the most and the least about our monohull:
Now that you have seen the short version of it, read below. Each of these pros and cons are discussed in much greater detail.
And I have a few more features too!
Are we really comparing apples to apples ? Apart from the number of hulls, the two sailboats are, actually quite different.
A monohull is a sailboat with a single hull , while a catamaran has two – imagine Pirates of the Caribbean versus Moana (but nicer).
There is yet another kind – a trimaran – a sailboat with three hulls (which is where we might be headed next, if we venture out into the big blue again).
Since few people are sailing trimarans, I will focus on the two most common sailboats – cats and monos.
Below are a few main features which will define the performance of a boat, as well as the overall cruising experience .
I am offering simple explanations and descriptions, so that anyone can understand and decide what matters most.
It is the sailor that makes mistakes, not the boat.
Monohulls can handle bad weather, if steered well – where each larger wave must be surfed. It really is up to the captain to make or break the journey in poor weather.
Catamarans are like small moving islands. They, too, can handle bad weather safely, but are a bit harder to yield to the wishes of the captain, as they are slower to respond.
We have made mistakes on both cats and monos and the weather was not even that bad – poor choices will affect safety far more than the number of hulls.
Both catamarans and monohulls can sail perfectly fine out in the ocean, around the world, more than once.
Boater’s Tip : The best favor you can do yourself, is to take sailing classes , practice and learn everything you can about your boat.
Monohulls have a heavy bottom, which constantly pulls the boat down. Catamarans are very hard to flip over.
If a monohull flips, it will right itself fairly quickly (unless it starts taking in water). If it takes in water, a monohull will sink quickly.
It is likely the mast will break, before a cat capsizes . Once they flip over, however, they stay that way and turn into a raft.
Let’s be real, though. If the boat is truly in such daring conditions that it flips over, the injuries and damage are the real danger, for those still conscious.
Boater’s Tip: Avoid bad weather in the first place – use Predict Wind App , have a guide during longer passages. Avoiding a major storm is perfectly doable.
Monohulls are far more affordable than catamarans.
There are also a lot more of them to choose from , making it a buyer’s market in almost all cases.
It is not unheard of to offer half of what a monohull is listed for and be able to get a great deal.
Catamarans have always been more expensive , but especially in the last few years. With more people able to be location-independent , catamarans have become the first choice for a floating home, for many.
Buying a catamaran? Read this: Buying a Catamaran in 10 Steps – Complete Guide.
When we first moved on a sailboat , we still had our house and its large mortgage , and we were not sure if that boating thing was going to work at all . So, we only looked at monohulls and were able to find our 1985 Grand Soleil 39 at a very good price.
Once we decided to switch to a catamaran, low-balling went out the window . It was a hot cats’ market out there. We looked hard , made tons of calls, but most of all waited as long as it took.
Patience can pay off and is a good financial habit to adopt.
For more good financial habits: 12 Practical Ideas to Spend Less
The prices for cats have been staying high due to many people being willing to finance a boat , kind of like having a mortgage on a home.
It sort of makes sense, if the boat is to become your new home.
Flipping a fixer-upper boat is a risky business. Few venture into it.
Monohulls and catamarans are like cars , they lose their value over time.
Sure, one can buy a fixer-upper of a boat, update all the systems and end up with a beautiful boat, but the cost of boat upgrades and repairs is very high. Unless you do most of the work yourself, return on investment is zero.
Even catamarans do not hold their value. You have to rely on a crash in the luxury items market, or a hurricane leaving lots of boats with reparable damage, to snag a good deal on a cat.
We lost money selling our monohull, but made money on our catamaran – we did almost all the work ourselves and it was a good market, so we took advantage . It did cut our cruising short, unfortunately.
Boater’s Tip: Sell your boat “by owner” and do the listing right – here is a whole post about it: How to Sell a Boat by Owner, the Honest Way
Plan for around 10% of the boat value for annual maintenance cost.
Monohulls only have one of each to run and fix – one engine, one hull to paint, one AC unit.
Catamarans cost more to maintain and expenses add up quickly.
In addition, it costs more to haul out a catamaran , as few boatyards are equipped with a sling to accommodate the width of a catamaran.
There are even fewer options in remote island countries .
Boater’s Tip: If sailing internationally, do just the urgent repairs at the US/other developed country. Cheaper destinations offer a lot cheaper services. Buy spares, they are hard to find in remote places.
Both or our boats have been designed with speed in mind.
We have sailed at 11 knots downwind on our 42 ft Privilege catamaran. We usually reached 7-8 knots into wind, on our 39 ft Grand Soleil monohull.
That was in around 15-20 knots of wind.
Catamarans sail faster, with all other things being equal . A few factors contribute to higher speed in catamarans:
A 50 foot sailing catamaran (and smaller), with proper hull and body design, can exceed 20 knots of sailing speed in 25 knots of wind.
More subjective factors that have major influence on the speed of both monohulls and catamarans:
Boater’s Tip: To increase boat speed during sail, buy folding propellers . Put the boat on reverse, so they don’t spin, to decrease drag. Just make sure you take the boat off reverse when starting the engine!
If you are starting new, with no sailing experience , start sailing a monohull.
A monohull allows you to be the one sailing the vessel. You can really feel the wind and gain a perfect understanding of how the wind and the sails work together.
Our monohull did not have an autopilot and even though overnight passages were hard, we became very familiar and comfortable with our boat. This is coming from a mama who never grew fond of sailing .
If going out for a day sail, for the sake of sailing, I would pick a monohull.
Catamarans are fast, but they kind of sail as they wish . It is almost impossible to feel the wind and its pull on the mast.
That is why catamarans are sailed by numbers – by reefing the sails following the manufacturer’s recommendations. With experience it becomes easier.
Boater’s Tip : Try sailing a monohull and a catamaran, to see the difference. Both will likely make you sick , so don’t let that be the determining factor.
I am discussing performance in terms of how the boat sails at different angles to the wind.
Monohulls sail great into the wind , making it easy to start a passage when the wind is blowing almost in your face. They achieve this by heeling over (leaning to one side).
Monohulls do not sail well downwind . You can have a spinnaker up, or spread the sails to grab the most wind possible, but it is hard for light apparent wind (true wind speed reduced by your boat’s speed, when sailing downwind) to move a heavy monohull.
Catamarans do not sail into the wind . Even performance cats need a winder angle into the wind to be able to move.
Downwind, catamarans will give you the most comfortable ride ever , while flying a spinnaker. That glass of wine they are talking about not spilling aboard – it is during downwind sailing.
Both cats and monos suck when sailed into beam wind (wind coming from the side). I know, I am not terribly technical here, but it feels like choosing between two evils – rolling and puking, or being jerked and puking.
Feeling sick? This might help: Seasickness Sucks – 21 Tried and Tested Tips to Stop it.
Boater’s Tip : Wait for a better weather window. Nothing can ruin a great adventure quite like sailing, scheduled by your calendar.
When discussing maneuverability, I am featuring here behavior under sail .
Monohulls are very easy and responsive to tacking (changing the direction of the boat, while sailing upwind). All those movies where teams work in excellent synchronized movements to flip sails to the other side of the boat, show you examples of tacking.
Catamarans are hard to tack . They are very slow to respond , so you need lots of momentum and speed, as you prepare to tack. Once you wait a bit too long, the opportunity is gone. It is not a big deal, but in stronger winds, you can easily rip a sail when it starts flopping uncontrollably in the wind.
We are not fans of jibing on either boat (changing the direction of the boat during downwind sailing). True downwind sailing is never a good idea, because accidental jibing can hurt both the boat (done it!) and the crew , in stronger winds.
Boater’s Tip: No texting and tacking – teamwork pays off best when working together to sail against the direction of the wind 😉
The best part about docking is pushing off the docks. Marinas are expensive and the adventure is never, ever the same , if the boat is just tied in place.
Still, when considering docking keep in mind:
Catamarans are super easy to dock and can rotate a full circle on a very small radius. This is because catamarans have two engines and it is a breeze to control the boat, while using the engines to maneuver into tight spaces.
Monohulls are such a pain to dock ; it was our captain’s biggest nightmare. We were all threading very carefully when it was time to dock our monohull . That momentum the boat gives you while tacking, works quite against you when docking.
When we purchased our monohull back in 2017, we found the tiniest, cheapest marina on the Chesapeake Bay, and sailed on the weekends, practicing docking .
Only the marina owners laughed at us (even though they never admitted it).
Boater’s Tip : We like casting the spring line first, when docking. Some marinas have ridiculously strong currents – call ahead and make sure someone is there to help.
If you want to jump off and swim to the beach, you need a catamaran.
The draft of the boat is the distance between the waterline and the end of the keel. This defines how deep the boat can go without hitting bottom.
Catamarans are lighter and have a shallower draft , compared to monohulls. From around 3ft for a cat under 40ft, to around 6ft for larger catamarans. Our Privilege 42 drew 3.5ft.
Catamarans can go in shallower water. They can even be “beached” , meaning, you can actually take the boat all the way to the beach, then use the high tide to bring her back into the deeper water. Just ensure the access is free from any rocks and coral.
For the times you “beach” the boat accidentally, make sure you have towing help .
The photo above is from us sailing the Great Bahama Bank – an amazing shallow plateau that only a catamaran can handle.
Monohulls have a longer keel, which helps stabilize the boat . The keel must go fairly deep, in order to “hold” a monohull upright , and to counter the wind force on the sails.
The most common keel types you might see are:
Our 39-foot monohull drew 6 feet – quite a lot for such a small boat. It did limit our anchoring options.
We have seen both catamarans and monohulls stuck, by running aground . It is possible to free up the boat, if you are careful with the engines and don’t end up digging yourself deeper.
We had a Boat US membership the entire time we were coastal sailing the US. They even rescued our dinghy once.
Boater’s Tip : We always set our depth instruments to show smaller than actual depth, giving us a cushion with the uneven sea floor.
Comfort at anchor matters most, but a miserable passage can ruin the entire adventure very quickly.
So, let’s talk about passages – seasickness, heeling, slamming, rolling, keeping watch…
Seasickness happens both on catamarans and monohulls . We found it worse on catamarans, contrary to popular belief. Anything but downwind sailing makes the catamaran turn and twist in ways that only make sense to a catamaran.
The jerking of the catamaran almost feels like riding a tractor on a very bumpy road, but without the chance to stop and rest. On top of that, waves slamming under the boat (even with higher clearance), make the entire boat shake.
Seasickness on a monohull is an absolute given in beam winds . The entire boat rolls from side to side, with every single wave and such passages are downright miserable.
Heeling is a must on a monohull, if you wish to go anywhere. While this is great for speed, it makes life at an angle uncomfortable .
Personally, healing always freaked me out . I feared a kid might fall out of the boat and chased everyone below deck (where seasickness eagerly awaited).
Sleeping on a catamaran during passages is hard, because the slamming of the waves below is too loud and disturbing. I never got used to it.
Sleeping on a monohull during passages is actually a bit better, once you fall asleep. The movement of the monohull is predictable, which can, actually, rock you to sleep .
Boater’s Tip: Buy a Reliefband ! All of us got seasick, every single passage. We tried everything . Nothing worked like Reliefbands, and they come with zero side effects.
The art of anchoring must be learnt along with the art of sailing. Otherwise damage to other boats is quite possible. Anchoring is simple math and common sense .
Catamarans behave much better at anchor, compared to monohulls. They are more stable and not affected as much by a wrap-around swell (when the waves are coming from the side, while the boat is facing into the wind).
Considering cruising is 99% standing still , it is not hard to understand why this single advantage can negate everything else.
Cats tend to “sail” on their anchor , meaning the boat may move about, being pushed by the wind. Just something to keep in mind in a tight anchorage.
Monohulls will roll a lot more at anchor , if the anchorage is not super calm. We have been seasick at anchor a few times, which the kids loved , because those “wind days” meant “no school aboard”.
Monohulls can counter wrap around swell by bridling – dropping a second anchor off the bow, in order to keep the boat facing into the waves, rather than into the wind.
No matter what boat you end up anchoring, keep in mind that with the changing wind, the boat position will also change.
Oh, and watch the boat behind you, please ( yes, I’m talking to you, St. Thomas guys, on that chartered boat ).
Boater’s Tip : a good rule of thumb, for normal sea conditions, is 5:1 – five feet of chain for every foot of depth.
The indoor space is a huge factor for many, when shopping for a sailboat .
It mattered a lot to us, as well. The most important things to keep in mind are:
I have a popular post all about space on a boat: Why We Never Missed Space, While Living on a Sailboat.
Catamarans have more indoor, living space , compared to monohulls (for same length boats). This should come as no surprise. The salon and hulls together make the cat feel like a cute apartment on the water.
Catamarans offer a much better view and lots of light . Monohulls offer no view, but they are not dark, because the hatches act like skylights. The photos, from our boats above, prove just how bright a monohull is.
If you want more of a performance cat, then the view will be sacrificed a bit, because the cabin must be curved and relatively low, to avoid extra windage.
Only certain model catamarans and monohulls will have ceilings suitable for tall people. Joe is 6’4″ and the only catamaran under 43 feet, which would accommodate him, was the Privilege.
Catamarans offer a perfect separation of living space and private cabins. Monohulls with a center cockpit do have a nice aft cabin, but everything else is tight, or a bunk-style closet. Again, focusing on boats under 45 feet.
With three teens aboard , privacy was high on our list. We loved the separate heads (bathrooms) for each hull, although having four of them aboard is excessive (we turned one into the laundry room , and another into a shower room).
Boater’s Tip : Do consider catamarans with the galley below – I loved it! You get a ton more counter-space, and the salon above is more spacious.
Considering most boats sail in warm climates, the outdoor space is a crucial factor, when shopping for a boat.
Catamarans offer much, much better outdoor space, compared to monohulls . The cockpit was my favorite space, on our Privilege .
Unlike the patio of a house, the outdoor space of an anchored boat provides constant breeze and zero bugs (occasional bee swarms might happen in some places).
Another point for the catamaran is the bow trampolines , which are a favorite hang-out spot. It is easy to send the kids and their friends to the front, while the adults hang out in the cockpit.
With older kids , however, we just left them all boat-alone, while the adults gathered on a different boat.
Walking on deck during passages is easier on a catamaran , because the boat does not heel.
Sustainability is all in the hands of the crew , much like safety. It is never the boat’s fault, if the crew wants to motor, instead of sail.
Both catamarans and monohulls have plenty of surface area to attach solar panels and wind generators.
You will like this post: This Sustainable Lifestyle is the Fairest of Them All. 10 Reasons Why Living on a Sailboat Matters.
A few boating families we met swore by their solar ovens too. I bought a super cheap one and never got it to cook anything, but granola.
As far as the cats having two engines – many motor using only one of them, and the one engine aboard a heavier monohull uses plenty of diesel too.
Boater’s Tip : Forget the generator. They are super noisy and use lots of diesel. When you are at anchor, there is a constant breeze. Buy wind scoopers instead.
Our kids were happy, as long as there were other boatkids . So, that should be on the top of the priorities’ list.
I have an excellent post on socializing the kids while on the water:
Sailing and Socializing Kids – 8 Ways to Find Friends on the High Seas.
Having said that, our catamaran was much more comfortable to invite company over, compared to our monohull.
Catamarans have an excellent division of space – both indoor and outdoor. Not to mention that on a hot day, a swim platform can go under the trampolines for shade!
Monohulls are best for swinging and playing catapult games , but they are not great for entertainment .
We have had family visit aboard our Privilege , and it did not feel crowded at all.
Boater’ tip : Be the party boat, at the anchorage, if you have kids, this will make them enjoy boat-life more.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Captains are not the only beholders.
Both monohulls and catamarans can look amazing, or ridiculous. We liked both of our boats, the captain actually loved them both , which put me in a perpetual love triangle.
To be perfectly honest, Graceful was a better suited name for our Grand Soleil Monohull. We were not able to come up with a better name, and everyone knew us as the SV Graceful crew, so we kept the name for our catamaran .
There is also some romance surrounding the looks of a monohull , from paintings and movies, so I’ll give the beauty point to the monohull.
Boater’s Tip: Pick the one, which will make your wife less jealous.
Unless you are solo-sailing, you must consider the wishes of the crew .
When we first looked at boats, catamarans were out of the question, because they were expensive, and our captain thought they were ugly .
Three years later, two of which full-time living aboard our monohull, the boatkids spoke! They wanted to continue sailing, but on a catamaran . And we listened.
Check out the full story of our crazy adventures
In the end, we are the parents and there are decisions as well as consequences, which are not OK to dump on the kids.
But the crew is a true team on the water . So, everyone’s opinion matters (which is also why we returned to land life).
Now that we have talked about the differences between the two boats, let’s see which one might be right for you, at this stage of your adventure .
We believe that a catamaran is the best choice for a family , especially when traveling with older kids .
Teens will love the clever separation of space with cabins, providing plenty of privacy.
Our favorite Privilege, actually has a fully enclosed cockpit, for added safety.
A monohull might be best for couples with toddlers , requiring help and constant supervision (got for one with a centyer cockpit).
When the need arises, for both people to be handling the sails, it usually requires one’s full attention and a kid on a catamaran can run out of sight quickly.
The best thing you can do, if no other factors are at play, if to hop on both sailboats, enjoy a day-sail trip, then discuss it with the crew.
A monohull would be the better choice for a physically fit couple , sailing without kids (or with young ones).
Owning a monohull is cheaper , and a couple might have the budget to stop at marinas more often and explore places in-land.
A retired couple might find a small catamaran more comfortable . The acrobatics and strain to sail at an angle, climbing in and out of the salon, as well as climbing on deck do require agility and a healthy body.
It is hard to beat a monohull, if sailing solo .
If the boat is rigged for solo-sailing, the smaller cockpit of a monohull provides great space to handle the lines. Especially, if the instruments fail.
One person can solo sail a catamaran that is no bigger than 40 feet , with a small cockpit and rigged for solo sailing. Hop in the cockpit of a desired cat and try grabbing the lines on either side, alone, from the cockpit. Can you do it?
If planning to do lots of cruising, then either boat would be fine , depending on your preference, considering all the things mentioned above.
If planning to live mostly at marinas and travel to explore land, maybe a monohull is better, offering a lot more options for marinas at a lower cost.
If you need to haul out the boat frequently, during hurricane season, a monohull would be easier and cheaper.
Catamaran at a mooring field, in an expensive location , will grant you those million-dollar views , from your living room, for a small fraction of the cost that people pay ashore.
We loved Coconut Grove, Downtown Miami, USVI, from our quiet, private and affordable boat.
Speaking of waterfront living, I have a great post about living on a boat:
Can you Live on a Boat? Yes, and Now is the Right Time
A catamaran will be the better chartering option , if you are just sailing out for a week, or so. Here is why:
Still uncertain? Check out the praises sung to both monohulls and catamarans below – all by our dear friends, who have sailed extensively and know what they are talking about.
SV Silent Thunder , “Mono- smoother ride as she cuts through the sea.”
SV Lady of Mettle dad, “I prefer monos. I never seen the need to go over the same wave twice. Mono’s are a more predictable swaying motion. Cats feel unpredictable and “twitchy” to me. Monohulls handle weight better than cats. If blown over, monos stand back up. Cats don’t.”
SV Lady of Mettle mama , “When we sailed a Cat with family in Key West, I didn’t like that the helm was outside and upstairs. In foul weather that would not be great along with always having to be outside to helm. In comparison we have an inside helm to get out of sun or weather. I also did not enjoy the bow, outside on the deck was not as enjoyable to watch he dolphins play, and the smallest wave splashes over, keeping you in the back while sailing.
Overall sailing, I think a Monohull, but staying still, probably a cat just because of the open galley and living room areas.
My boat has plenty space however, a cat would not hold our things. Also, cats all look the same. Also 2 hulls to clean and scrape…booo The Cat has to go overboard.”
SV Traveler, “I would like the additional living space on a cat but I really like that my husband can captain our monohull by himself and if we need dock space or a haul out it seems easier to find with a monohull.”
SV Half Dozen , “CAT allows for view and comfort at anchor.”
SV Varekai , “…I can honestly say that (monohull) it’s not as comfortable. Cockpit, salon, berths…we all feel less comfortable on the mono. I also miss being up where I can see out. The sugar scoops were nice for when docked and sailing. I’m not a fan of boarding on the side as much.”
SV Mojo , “Straight and smooth sailing no healing. I would hate having to be angled while moving. Loved the space inside and out. There’s a compromise in everything but that worked for us for a bit anyway, because then I needed more space. If you give a pig a pancake…right?!”
SV Colibri , “We love the room, light and layout of our cat. We rarely sway at anchor. It’s nimble and has enough space and privacy for a family with two teens (and a cat!). It can be single handed. The mast is 63″ so we can take the ICW. All in all, a dream boat (FP Lipari).”
SV Snowless , “Love the cat. Would definitely take the cat over a mono for most of the time. Yes the mono is great for going to to the wind aka, getting from us to Caribbean, but that is only a small portion of the travel. After that it’s mostly beam or downwind sailing. The trade off for being at anchor which is where you spend most is your time is unmatchable in my opinion.
However, when going upwind and I look ahead and see a mono healed over cutting through the waves with this mast holding steady, vs me and my mechanical bull that I am riding, I am envious.”
SV Aquafox , “I liked all the different living spaces we had on ours. I really liked the stability of it vs the movement you can get on a mono. Monos are awesome on speed and price though.”
Below are links to our boat tours, as well as episodes on Youtube, showing our boats, enjoy:
Our Catamaran Tour – 1995 Privilege 42
Our Monohull Boat Tour – 1985 Grand Soleil 39
Our 1985 Privilege 42 For Sale Video
Our first few YouTube episodes feature our monohull
In the end, I propose that Catamaran vs Monohull Battle be renamed to Sailor vs Sailor Battl e.
It really matters most what kind of cruising the sailor wants to do , and what matters most to the crew. And, just like in real battles, sides can be changed.
So, let’s focus on the crew and leave the poor cat and mono alone .
All of our Boat Life Posts
Buying a Catamaran in 10 Steps – Complete Guide.
Pros and Cons of Living on a Boat. By Experienced Boaters.
The cost of living on a boat for a family
How to Sell a Boat by Owner, the Honest Way
Can you Live on a Boat? Yes, and Now is the Right Time
Mina is the creator and owner of No Texting and Tacking. She is an award-winning author, a philologist, a registered nurse and a native Bulgarian. She turned into a travel blogger in 2018, when her family of five decided to sail and travel the world.
Catamarans and monohulls are two vessels that have distinct features from each other. Catamarans have two hulls connected by a bridge structure whereas, as the name suggests monohulls have a single hull.
Both types of vessels have different features in terms of both aesthetics and function, let’s get into the details to find out more.
Since catamarans have two hulls, they are normally wider than monohulls. This gives the designers and owners the flexibility to maximize the space requirements in terms of space and function.
Vessels can be designed for either commercial or recreational uses. The additional space can serve as an advantage in both fields. In terms of recreational vessels such as yachts, the accommodation can be split up between the two hulls and can be well designed in such a manner that separate spaces can be allotted for the owner, guest, and crews with separate passages such that the path between the primary guests and the crew don’t collide.
In terms of interiors, the huge space addition can give the owners much more flexibility in choosing furniture without size restrictions and more space for additional appliances such as washers, dryers and so on which can make life on board much easier.
The deck can also house more people without the feeling of being enclosed in a closed space and for this reason, catamarans are normally used as party boats with wider deck space and more space to move around.
In terms of storage, catamarans have better storage options than monohulls as both the hulls can be utilized for different functions which not only increases the overall capacity of storage in terms of fuel , fresh water , cargo, and so on but also gives the designer an option to segregate the storage areas for different uses.
Catamarans are also now a growing trend in the fishing industry as the wide decks provide more area for the fisherman to move around without any obstructions making fishing much easier also, catamarans tend to roll less which stabilizes the vessel better than monohulls, giving more stable conditions for fishing without the risk of going aboard.
Due to the wider proportions, the spaces can also be designed in such a way so as to house tenders, jet-skis, and so on, on either of the deck spaces normally aft of the vessel mostly functioned by a small crane which can launch the vessel into the water.
Recreational activities such as swimming and diving can be performed with ease on both types of boats. On catamarans, the wide aft spaces also provide effective spacing for housing equipment and accessories such as dive tanks, telescopic staircases and so on which can serve as must-haves for similar activities.
The same can also be performed on monohulls with limitations to the width of the vessel. The wide superstructures on catamarans can also be used to house solar panels for green and renewable energy solutions which surely is going to be a great advantage in the near future.
Monohulls have the advantage of having wider compartments below the deck when compared to catamarans, as the overall width of the hull is larger than a single hull on a catamaran. This gives room for larger living spaces below the deck, which can have the option to walk around on either side of the bed.
Catamarans are normally priced more than monohulls. This is because they have more overall area which requires more raw materials in the production stage than monohulls.
In terms of machinery, they have two or more engines on each hull depending on the width of each semi-hull and its supporting machinery which can increase the overall cost of the final product.
In terms of engines, maintenance is less frequent when compared to monohulls as they don’t need to operate on their maximum limits to push the vessel.
Maintenance costs can also be higher for catamarans as they have more machinery and more deck space, but on the contrary, the ease of maintenance will be much better in catamarans than monohulls as they have better accessible spaces.
The preventive maintenance for corrosion and marine growth on catamaran hulls is also higher as they normally have more area to treat than monohulls.
Catamarans tend to outperform monohulls due to their slender hulls which help in reducing the drag forces. On performance power catamarans the space between the two hulls is called a “Tunnel” which is designed in a similar manner to an aerofoil so that it acts like a wing, which increases the aerodynamic lift forces thereby increasing overall efficiency and top-end speeds of the vessel.
The balance between the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic forces is the key aspect that determines the performance and stability of high-speed catamarans.
Fuel economy is normally better on catamarans due to the higher lift forces and lower water friction compared to monohulls which thereby reduces the overall load on the engines, reducing fuel consumption.
Catamarans are generally more stable than monohulls in terms of roll stability. Let’s take an example of balancing a stick in the middle compared to balancing it by supporting the two ends, obviously, the second case has an advantage. In a similar manner, we can observe that catamarans have better roll stability when compared to monohulls.
This gives them an upper hand in terms of comfort and executing different operations onboard the vessel with ease, also reducing the risk of people falling on board the vessel. Catamarans are mostly used as ferries or passenger vessels as people tend to get less seasick on these kinds of vessels.
The deeper the deadrise the better the sea-keeping characteristics, most monohulls are designed with a deep v deadrise and tend to outperform catamarans which normally have displacement or semi-displacement hulls, in rough waters.
The typical catamarans are better in shallower water than rough water due to this reason and that’s why we see most of the coastal or inland cruisers as catamarans and most ocean-going vessels as deep v monohulls.
The draft can be defined as the distance of the waterline to the keel of the vessel. Catamarans normally tend to have a lower draft compared to monohulls which gives them an advantage of plying over shallower waters without the risk of grounding.
The lower the draft of the less the vessel, the less it is in contact with water, and therefore the overall water friction resistance is reduced leading to the need for lower power to push the vessel and better fuel efficiency.
For the thrill of sailing most sailors prefer monohulls over catamarans. They are sensitive to different forces like wind and waves acting on the vessel and there is an immediate response on the vessel. They ride through rough and choppy waves; this is the experience the sailors look forward to, giving them an adrenaline rush.
Sailing catamarans do not respond similarly to monohulls as the overall motions are reduced and also monohulls maneuver much easier than catamarans at high speeds.
Docking in marinas usually is easier with monohulls than catamarans as they require lesser space to mauver into the docking space.
Catamarans normally tend to be on the safer side than monohulls in terms of backups and safety. If any machinery fails there is always a backup, say for example if rudder machinery fails on the port hull we can always get back ashore with the help of the starboard rudder, similarly if an engine fails there is always the second engine which can be used as a backup.
In terms of reserve buoyancy, if the port side hull gets damaged, the vessel will still remain afloat. These advantages can help people on board keeping them safe and saving a life.
The only downside to the above aspects is the maintenance costs which come up with the same as we discussed earlier.
The type of vessel should depend totally on your end goals in terms of functionality, performance, region of operation, and so on.
But always keep in mind never to get blinded by the length when you compare a monohull to a catamaran. A monohull in comparison might be longer but the overall space which is measured in cubic space will be higher in the shorter-length catamaran.
Going through the pros and cons the final decision should be made depending on your personal requirements.
About the author
I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.
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Some dyed-in-the-wool purists have been known to demonstrate a little “sailing snobbery” from time to time. Putting sailing snobbery aside … if planning a sailing vacation and you aren’t sure whether you want a catamaran or a monohull , you need to weigh the pros and cons of each to see what makes more sense for your purposes. Personally, I quite like both … for different reasons!
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Monohull boats vs. catamarans.
When deciding what type of boat to buy, you will likely want to understand the differences between the most popular boat hulls. This brief article highlights some of the critical differences between Catamaran and Monohull boats.
Undoubtedly one of the most important features of any watercraft is how well it’s engineered for a comfortable ride for all passengers. Many boats are primarily designed around comfort for the captain. This usually means anyone at the front or sides of the boat takes most of the jostling. The catamaran-style hull delivers three distinctive characteristics key to ride comfort, smoothness, load distribution, and stability.
The wider footprint of the catamaran vessel helps negate the effects of unpredictable rolling while at sea. The efficient hull design reduces resistance and allows for faster headway, especially in rough conditions.
The narrow design of the monohull vessel relies heavily on the calmness of the water to ensure a smooth ride. The bouncing, slapping, and choppiness encountered by the monohull is much greater due to the greater amount of surface area that remains in contact with the water.
A catamaran beam is carried fully forward, giving the deck a rectangular design, and resulting in more usable deck space than a monohull boat.
Boats have a pinched bow, which comes to a point, creating a triangular shape as opposed to a catamaran’s rectangular shape. This feature makes the monohull less space-efficient.
The catamaran’s rectangular shape uses space much more efficiently, giving passengers room to stretch out and enjoy the ride, even from the bow of the boat. Passengers can also enjoy the freedom to fish from either side of the deck, as opposed to having to adjust to ensure even weight distribution, as is the case with monohull designs. This is because the catamaran’s resistance to capsizing is much higher.
If you’re reading this, then you’ve almost certainly boarded a monohull style vessel, and you’re familiar with their tendency to rock and dip when passengers are boarding and offboarding. This unfortunate feature of monohull vessels can be understood best with a simple analogy: catamarans are similar to standing on two legs, while monohull vessels are similar to balancing on one leg.
Catamarans’ parallel hulls create reliable form stability, which prevents heeling and capsizing, and greatly reduces the vessel roll at rest and at trolling speeds. One of the most obvious advantages of catamaran stability is in the elimination of seasickness for passengers.
The stability of the monohull can be called into question more readily than a catamaran, as it requires four-times less force to initiate the capsize of a monohull vessel than an equally sized catamaran. Heeling is also more of a problem for the monohull, as its single-beam style makes it seven-times more prone to heeling than a similarly sized catamaran.
A catamaran hull experiences little to drag or resistance to get on plane, resulting in greater fuel economy. Catamarans have a steady rise in speed and fuel burn with little to no spikes in fuel consumption. See the diagram below courtesy of Yamaha Outboards.
Worldcat 296DC with 600HP Yamaha Outboards
By comparison, bow(keel) drag created by a monohull vessel is higher than that of a catamaran, and due to this greater displacement. The monohull encounters higher resistance taking longer to plane and spikes in speed and fuel consumption at mid-range. A monohull, by comparison, needs much more power to increase its speed.
29′ Monohull with 600HP Yamaha Outboards
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The controversy rages in dockside watering holes, tackle shops, and Internet chat rooms: Which rides better-a catamaran or a V-hull? So far, all the talk has been purely subjective: A cat feels like this, a V-hull feels like that. To us, that’s useless. At Boating Magazine, we need hard numbers, things that we can quantify, then we’ll decide. So we took a Regulator 26, which just might be the best-riding V-hull for its size, and a Glacier Bay 260 Canyon Runner, one of the best-riding cats, and wired them with expensive sensing gear. Rather than a match between two specific boats, it would be a comparison of the finest qualities of each type. We expected the cat to be smoother when the going got rough, but what about the other times? Is it the most comfortable all-around boat? It took us a year-that’s right, one full year-to compile and understand the data, but here, finally, is the answer.
Measured Madness Our first problem was how to quantify a boat’s motion underway. The best tool we came up with is an accelerometer, which records changes and degrees of motion. We also had electronic gear to measure the boats’ angles, WAAS-enabled GPS units, rangefinders to measure distances, four laptops, stopwatches, plumb bobs, measuring tapes, and eventually, a collection of soggy notebooks.
To help us make sense of what we compiled, and back up our conclusions, we enlisted two top naval architects. So we’d like to thank Rick Strand, president of Strand Technologies, a consultant to companies such as Tillotson-Pearson, Boston Whaler, and Brunswick; and John H. Deknatel, president of the legendary design firm C. Raymond Hunt Associates.
With their help, the evidence became clear. What we discovered should silence the know-it-alls and may surprise the enlightened. Without question, we’ve killed the controversy. The boat type with the most comfortable ride is…
Not so fast-to understand our answer, you need to know how we approached the question.
Three Easy Pieces First, we wanted to measure how differently cats and V-hulls turn. To do this, we set up a buoy and had each boat make the tightest 180-degree turn it could at 30 mph. The diameter of each boat’s turn was about the same, although the V-hull averaged 8.4 seconds compared to the cat’s 8.9 seconds. The important difference, however, was how each banked in the turn.
Our electronic angle indicator showed the cat leaning outward by 26 degrees. The unit may have been over-reading due to outward force, but none of the techies from the indicator’s company could confirm this and they therefore stand by its number. By any measure, the cat did lean outward at a steep angle, which can be disconcerting to say the least. Loose gear slides more when a boat leans opposite the turn, and the push that occurs at the apex can make you feel as if you’re going to be thrown out. Of course, with time, you can get used to this. Furthermore, the lean can be minimized by trimming up the outboard engine and trimming down the inboard.
In contrast, the V-hull banked inward by 10 degrees. This not only feels natural, it also has a practical advantage. Centrifugal force pins you and your deck gear into the boat, and you need no special trimming techniques-just turn the wheel.
Both boats are designed for fishing, so our second test was to see how each fared while drifting.
To start, we measured each boat’s roll period-how long it takes to roll all the way to one side and back again. Too short a roll period foretells a jerky motion at sea, too long may mean there’s not enough initial stability. The cat’s period was 2.2 seconds. The V-hull’s was 2.4 seconds, almost 10 percent slower-which in this case is good.
Given our experience with a cat’s less-than-gentle motion at drift, we expected its period to be a lot shorter than the V-hull’s. In hopes of explaining this, we headed out into the ocean.
After the two boats took their natural drift angle in four-foot waves, we looked at the mean G forces each experienced. The cat showed 0.92 Gs, and the V-hull showed 1.18 Gs. So the cat is more comfortable, right?
Not quite. On average, it took the cat 1.15 seconds to reach those Gs, whereas it took the V-hull a little longer at 1.17 seconds. That is, the V-hull accelerated 2 percent slower than the cat. And, as we’ll get into later, slower accelerations equal more comfort.
The results from the accelerometer confirm our roll period tests. The cat, with its greater initial stability, resists rolling. When you stand on its rail at the dock, you notice it hardly leans at all. Most folks think this stability makes for a better boat offshore. But that same resistance to listing at the dock causes a cat to follow the contour of the waves while drifting. The steeper the wave face, the more the cat leans over.
The V-hull has less initial stability, so it gives a bit to your weight at the dock-and to oncoming waves. Its ability to roll easier means it’s not forced to follow the contour of the wave. Instead, as a wave approaches, the boat leans toward it, levels out at the crest, and then leans back into the retreating wave on the way down. In this way, it’s trying to remain level, rather than trying to conform to the angle of the water it’s floating in.
Our third test was to see how smooth each boat ran on a “perfect” boating day, one with a small one-to-two-foot chop on an open bay and a 10-mph breeze. We ran the boats side by side, and the differences shown on the accelerometer were negligible.
So far, after three tests, the V-hull had come out on top in two, and both boats were about equal in one.
We Take It Outside “But what about how they ride when it’s rough?” we hear you ask. “That’s what we really want to know.” And we plan to tell you. But our contention is that there’s more to boating-and enjoying it-than this one element. Unfortunately, and unfairly, bar talk often centers around this, so here we go.
We chose a day when the waves were four to five feet with a six-second period-your typical “rough day.” We ran the boats 100 feet apart at 29 mph directly into the waves. It didn’t matter which boat we were in, it was uncomfortable. Anyone but a masochist would slow down or change course, but we’re here for science.
The graphs on page 86 (see “Graphic Violence”) represent the two boats hitting the same wave. Sharp readers will note that the impacts shown for the two do not exactly coincide. The time each boat hits a wave varies, and a given wave isn’t consistent in shape over its length. Since the boats couldn’t be tied abreast of each other, this is the best anyone can do.
We made numerous runs. For statistical accuracy, we examined seven individual waves for each boat and on each run.
Before giving you the numbers, let’s just say that our accelerometer numbers are dead accurate. But on test day the time between entering a wave, bottoming out, and leaving the wave occurred in less than 0.3 seconds-which is not uncommon. According to Deknatel, “That’s too short a time for your body and brain to process the full effect of the event.” The accelerometer, however, is capable of measuring what we can’t feel.
To accurately compare the ride for a real human, not the machine, you need to look at more than just the peaks of the graph (maximum G force). You need to look at the steepness of the graph’s slope (the time it takes to reach that force), too. A boat that develops more Gs doesn’t necessarily mean it has a harsher ride. It depends on how fast that force is applied. For example, if your 250-pound buddy gently leans on you, what you feel is different than if he were to hit you with a running tackle.
The curve for the cat peaks at 3 Gs; the V-hull, on the other hand, peaks at 4, meaning the cat has 25 percent less gravitational force.
We can also see that the cat consistently decelerated slower when it hit the wave than the V-hull did. It had an average deceleration of 0.287 seconds, compared to the V-hull’s 0.081 seconds-which is 3.5 times faster.
The cat not only landed with less force, it decelerated slower as well. The two combined say it has the more comfortable head-sea ride.
Our test day was rough, so much so that our testers were hard-pressed to say from their gut which rode softer. But, again, the machine is more sensitive than any human, and numbers don’t lie: The cat’s numbers were clearly better.
Later tests also showed the cat delivered lower Gs and slower decelerations while running downsea, in quartering seas, and in the trough. So it’s the most comfortable boat right? Well, not so fast.
Rough Guide We weren’t through testing yet-although some tests were hardly high science.
For example, to see how wet riding each hull was, we taped paper towels to the front of the console. Cats often “sneeze,” or throw a fine mist on certain headings. In this case, and even in the test day’s rough conditions, both sets of towels came back dry.
Then there were issues we couldn’t quantify, such as how a V-hull can dig in its bow going downsea to occasionally make steering difficult, or how in quartering seas a cat’s two hulls catch at different times, requiring constant small steering adjustments.
And there were things that we didn’t have time to test, such as the effect of weight. Typically, a V-hull rides better as it gets loaded down with gear and fuel, which is just the opposite of a cat. Also, our offshore tests were on closely spaced waves. On widely spaced rollers, where boats become airborne, the results would have been different.
In the end, for many boaters, especially those who seem to spend more time in gin mills and chat rooms than on the water, ride quality simply means how softly a boat handles head seas. By that standard, as measured by our accelerometers, and in our test conditions, the cat was the clear winner.
But ask yourself, how often do you go out in weather like that? To make the results of our tests worthwhile for you, ask yourself, “Which boat rides better in the conditions I expect to meet?”
For example, if you have to run far and fast to get to an offshore fishing ground, the cat is a better choice. If you fish close to home, and drift or troll more than flat-out running, the V-hull would be better.
Take all our tests into consideration, and the boat you buy will be the right boat-your Mr. Smoothie.
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COMMENTS
Attach one line to each of the forward cleats and bring the loose ends to the center. Pick up the mooring with a boathook. String one line through the eye and bring it back to the same cleat. Repeat on the other side, keeping the lines the same length so the cat is centered.
7. Shallow Draft Equals Better Anchorages. Catamarans have significantly shallower drafts than monohulls, allowing for safer anchorages closer to shore. Most catamarans in the 40-ft to 50-ft range draw between 3-ft to 4.5-ft, so they can anchor in places that a monohulls can not even consider.
Upwind sailing performance: While catamarans have the edge at straight-line speed, monohulls sail closer to the wind. When you're racing or you have to sail upwind to get to the next island, this can get you there faster. Sailing feel and responsiveness: The "feel" of sailing a monohull is much better.With a single hull, you'll feel wind pressure and trim adjustments immediately for a ...
Aug 17, 2015. Two sailboat experts argue monohull vs. catamaran. Contributed by Denison Yacht Sales. The great debate over which is better—one or two hulls—boils down to several factors, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. The verdict usually defaults to personal preference and intended use of the vessel, but that didn't stop ...
Catamaran vs. monohull power. A monohull under auxiliary power may be faster than a catamaran in certain conditions, like powering against a strong wind. In other wind and wave conditions, the catamaran is often faster. Also, with an engines on each hull, the cat is often much more maneuverable in close quarters or at the marina.
Monohulls have a single hull, and catamarans have two hulls side-by-side. Catamarans are faster than monohulls of the same length and displacement, but monohulls are stronger and more spacious. Monohulls are also cheaper and easier to build than multi-hulls. In this article, we'll cover the differences between catamarans and monohulls, along ...
Monohull boats are typically more maneuverable than catamarans. The single hull allows for sharper turns and greater agility, which can be advantageous in tight spaces, marinas, or when docking. The ability to maneuver easily makes monohulls more versatile in navigating narrow channels, entering small harbors, or handling in confined areas.
A catamaran has more space than a monohull. This is because the boat is wider, and it has a much larger deck area. It also has twice as many hulls, so you have more overall space between the two of them. The additional space is great for people looking to throw parties on their boats.
The level of stability that a catamaran has is one of the main reasons why capsizing is a very rare occurrence. A catamaran can lurch when the tops of the waves are at a certain distance, thereby leading to less bobbing. Monohull. The stability of a monohull will always be questioned, especially when compared to a catamaran.
These boats have a single hull, which means that their stability comes from the shape and weight distribution of the hull. Generally speaking, monohulls tend to be less stable than catamarans, especially in rough waters. This is because the single hull has to work harder to maintain balance, and can be more prone to tipping or rolling.
Speed. In the catamaran vs monohull speed debate, it might be more of a draw. Catamarans are typically 25-30% faster than a comparable monohull, but some argue that it comes at a price. When catamarans are sailing full speed you might experience a lot of slapping from the waves. Monohulls are designed to cut through the water.
Not as fast or efficient due to single hull: Better than catamarans: A catamaran is a boat with two hulls connected by a deck. Because they have two hulls, catamarans are known for their speed, stability, and spaciousness. They are often used for cruising and chartering, as well as racing. They also have a wider beam than monohulls, which means ...
Catamaran boats also feature shallower draft, smaller displacement, and less hull volume than monohull boats. Therefore, this boat is more spacious than a monohull boat. It should be what you're looking for if you're sailing with family or friends. On the other hand, monohull boats provide limited space, and most spaces are below the waterline.
With catamarans vastly popular in the charter industry, and showing no sign of abating, let's compare the pros and cons of monohull and catamaran strictly on the charter work point of view. The reason why this distinction is important - and I write this as a monohull fanatic myself - is because for charter companies, catamarans are in huge demand due to the overwhelming number of advantages ...
When selecting a fishing boat, anglers face a significant choice that can impact their experience on the water. The type of boat you choose - be it a catamaran or a traditional monohull - plays a pivotal role in defining your fishing adventures. Both catamaran and monohull boats have distinct features and advantages, and understanding these differences is key to finding a vessel that aligns ...
A monohull will be far easier than a catamaran to tack. Monohulls slice through the water effortlessly. On some catamarans you get an irritating slapping of water on the bridge decks in rougher seas. A monohull is generally faster to respond to the helm (in other words, they turn faster).
Comparing Power and Performance. One of the biggest differences between cats and monohulls is the requirement for at least two engines on a catamaran. For smaller deep-vee boats up to 26 feet or so, you could use a single 300 or 350 hp outboard. A cat of the same size might be powered by twin 150 or 200 hp engines.
Catamarans behave much better at anchor, compared to monohulls. They are more stable and not affected as much by a wrap-around swell (when the waves are coming from the side, while the boat is facing into the wind). Considering cruising is 99% standing still, it is not hard to understand why this single advantage can negate everything else.
Monohulls have the advantage of having wider compartments below the deck when compared to catamarans, as the overall width of the hull is larger than a single hull on a catamaran. This gives room for larger living spaces below the deck, which can have the option to walk around on either side of the bed.
Catamarans are usually faster than monohulls, particularly on downwind runs, reaches and broad reaches. It's less tiring to sail a catamaran than it is to sail a monohull. Sailing flat has definite advantages. If you are into SCUBA diving, carrying tanks and all the assorted equipment is much easier on a cat.
A catamaran beam is carried fully forward, giving the deck a rectangular design, and resulting in more usable deck space than a monohull boat. Monohull. Boats have a pinched bow, which comes to a point, creating a triangular shape as opposed to a catamaran's rectangular shape. This feature makes the monohull less space-efficient.
We can also see that the cat consistently decelerated slower when it hit the wave than the V-hull did. It had an average deceleration of 0.287 seconds, compared to the V-hull's 0.081 seconds-which is 3.5 times faster. The cat not only landed with less force, it decelerated slower as well.
The smallest cruising catamarans are about 35 feet, and a catamaran is effectively two monohulls bolted together, so yes, two 35-foot hulls cost more than one 25-foot hull to make. Two engines (usually). Two control systems for the engines. More materials are used in the construction of a cat than a comparable length monohull.