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catamaran passenger ferry VALE GRAND SUD

Length : 41.2 m DWT : 44 t Width : 10.9 m

Delivery of one 41m catamaran passenger ferry . COUNTRY NEW CALEDONIA CLIENTVALE NOUVELLE-CALÉDONIE HULL NUMBER 202 YEAR DELIVERED MAY 2012 WORK IN PROGRESS NO

catamaran passenger ferry BETICO

Length : 52.4 m Speed : 34 kt Passenger capacity : 366 unit

Delivery of a 52 metre high speed passenger catamaran . Country New Caledonia Client Compagnie Maritime Des Iles Hull number79 Year DeliveredSep 1999 Work In ProgressNo

catamaran passenger ferry FIRST TRAVEL XXXI & FIRST TRAVEL XXXII

Length : 41.4 m Speed : 16 kt Passenger capacity : 362 unit

Two deliveries of a 41m passenger ferry to New World First Travel Services of Hong Kong. COUNTRY HONG KONG CLIENTNEW WORLD FIRST TRAVEL SERVICES HULL NUMBER244, 245 YEAR DELIVERED 2003 WORK IN PROGRESSNO

catamaran passenger ferry 4000 - 3500 FCAT HSC

Length : 35 m Width : 9.6 m Draft : 1.5 m

This catamaran type vessel is specially designed for transporting passengers at high speed with the greatest comfort and space available. The ARESA 4000 - 3500 FCAT HSC is specially designed to develop ...

catamaran passenger ferry 3500 H2 FCAT

Length : 35 m Width : 10 m Draft : 1.5 m

This catamaran is specially designed for transporting passengers at medium speed, with the greatest comfort and space available. It is hydrogen powered, therefore, it has been designed to be efficient ...

catamaran passenger ferry 3500 - 3000 FCAT DAYLINE

Length : 30 m Width : 9 m Draft : 1.7 m

This catamaran type vessel is specially designed to transport passengers in coastal areas or between islands at high speed with the greatest comfort and space available. The ARESA 3500 - 3000 FCAT DAYLINE ...

cruising passenger ship HSC FERRY AMAZONAS II

Length : 34 m Width : 10 m Passenger capacity : 300 unit

... has certified the catamaran with the following class notation Malta Cross HSC - A - CAT; passenger ship. The ship has: 2 Engines of 1822 hp. Waterjet propulsion system. The catamaran ...

catamaran passenger ship Dofi Jet Cuatro

Length : 29 m Width : 9 m Passenger capacity : 251 unit

Passage catamaran with central bulb between two hulls, special for work with any weather condition.

catamaran passenger ship BENCHI EXPRESS

Length : 28.7 m Width : 9 m Passenger capacity : 250 unit

Passangers catamaran distributed in two decks with spaces for disabled people. This boat sails all the year in the Canary Islands. The boat has: - 4 toilets, one of them for disabled people - 1 bar - Solarium - Spaces ...

catamaran passenger ferry Eloise

Length : 33 m Width : 8.7 m Speed : 11 kt

... island of Hisingen with the city center. The Västtrafik ferries offer a a sustainable and easy way for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the river, transporting some 2,5 million passengers over the ...

catamaran passenger ferry 40M

Length : 40.45 m Width : 10.8 m Speed : 12.5 kt

PROJECT: Nigel Gee & Associates CLASSE: DNV 1A1 R3 (POR) Passenger Ship, EO BUILDING YEAR: 2007 ENERGY GEN SET: 2x Volvo DT5, 107 KVA NETWORK: 400V/ 230V AC, 3 phase, 50Hz 24V DC SYSTEMS AIR COND: ATEC/ ...

catamaran passenger ferry 27m

Length : 26.3 m Passenger capacity : 230 unit

Inland waters or coastal cruising passenger catamaran (PROJECT) Striling Design International Architect Length 26.30 m - Width 9.70 m 2 x 600 kW engines 18 knots cruising speed 230 passengers

catamaran passenger ferry VICTOR CHANG

Length : 36.38 m DWT : 39 t - 133 t Width : 10.4 m

OPERATOR: TRANSPORT NSW REGION: AUSTRALIA ROUTE/LOCATION: SYDNEY HARBOUR

catamaran passenger ferry S-153 M/V Gemini

Length : 36 m Passenger capacity : 149 unit

Crisp, dramatic red-and-white wedges in profile, these aluminum catamarans are among the greenest and most technologically advanced ferries yet built. Their San Francisco Bay operating environment demanded ...

catamaran passenger ferry FPF 38

Length : 37.8 m Passenger capacity : 350 unit

Navigation Radar Magnetic Compass GPS ECDIS Echo Sounder Auto Pilot GMDSS A3 (EPIRP+2xSART) NAVTEX AIS Speed Log CCTV PROPULSION & ELECTRIC SYSTEM Main Engines : 4 x Diesel Engine Propulsion : 4 x Water Jet Generator ...

catamaran passenger ship

Length : 25 m Passenger capacity : 231 unit

In 2015 Transmetal Industrie, builder of sailing vessels, delivered the largest sailing cruising catamaran on French coasts. This vessel may be used etheir as a restaurant or a cruiser.

catamaran passenger ferry AQUACAT

Passenger catamaran Architect : Coste design / H2X Composite building Capacity : 62 personnes Lenght : 17,3 meters Width : 6 meters Draught : 0,95 meters Max speed : 20 knots

cruising passenger ship PROECO

Length : 60.19 m Width : 7.5 m Passenger capacity : 100 unit

... The eco- catamaran , PROeco 60, 19 meters long and 7.5 meters wide, is designed to carry 100 passengers with two crew members. Powered by an environmentally friendly electric drive, the catamaran ...

catamaran passenger ferry 70

Length : 70.6 m Width : 17 m Speed : 30 kt

Aluminum alloy catamaran high-speed passenger ships with the largest number of passengers and the fastest speed are currently built in China. 2、According to the Austal ...

Ro-Ro passenger ferry LASLOVO

Length : 41.2 m Width : 16 m Draft : 2.3 m

... vessel's primary mission is the transportation of passengers and vehicles on short routes. The vessel is classed by the Croatian Register of Shipping as: * 50 A1 M1 AUT 2 IWS Ro-Ro Passenger Ferry , ...

catamaran passenger ship Spirit of Matushka & Skana

Length : 87'00" Width : 32'00" Speed : 30 kt

... (AAM) has delivered Spirit of Matushka & Skana, twin 150- passenger hydrofoil-assisted catamarans for Major Marine Tours. The vessels will operate out of Seward, Alaska, and will carry passengers ...

catamaran passenger ferry Korora

Length : 34.9 m Width : 9.5 m Draft : 1.3, 2 m

... coastal areas and evolves the design with the addition of a sundeck and an increase in passenger capacity to a total of 401. Ship Description 34m Catamaran Passenger Ferry Ship ...

catamaran passenger ferry Mar de Cíes

Length : 32.5 m Width : 10 m

Year: 2019 - Shipowner: Naviera Mar de ONS S.L. - Country: Spain

catamaran passenger ferry WPCAT 52R

Length : 52 m DWT : 57,000 kg Passenger capacity : 200 unit

The WPCAT 52R is a high-speed wave-piercing aluminium catamaran . It has been conceived as a multipurpose vessel, specifically designed and built for rescue and surveillance operations, and as such is equipped for dealing ...

catamaran passenger ship JACQUES DE THEZAC

Length : 31 m Passenger capacity : 399 unit

Length31,00 m Width8,60 m Draft1,90 m Speed20 noeuds Engine2 X MTU 16V2000 M70 Power2 X 1428 CV à 2100 T/min

catamaran passenger ferry 27M FERRY

Length : 27 m Passenger capacity : 204 unit

27m ferry The 27 ferry is a commercial passenger transportation vessel and has a capacity of 200 and 140 people to cater for mixed class and business class carriage respectively for ...

catamaran passenger ferry GÜRSEL AKSEL

Length : 39 m Passenger capacity : 426 unit

... Carbon Catamaran Passenger Ferry Service Speed 18 Knots Max. Speed 20 Knot Owner Metropolitan Municipality of Izmir Class ...

catamaran passenger ship M/S "Kalvøy"

Length : 26 m Width : 9 m Speed : 26 kt

Type: Aluminium passenger catamaran Length o.a.: 26,0 meters Beam o.a.: 9,0 meters Tonnage: 200 GRT Service speed: 26 knots Passengers : 147

catamaran passenger ferry Wavepiercer

Specifications Length:24 m Construction:Composite Beam:9.9 m Draft:1.6 Fuel:8,000 litres Cruise:25 knots Sprint:30 knots Range:550 nautical miles

cruising passenger ship Resolute

Length : 27.7 m Width : 9.2 m Speed : 27 kt

September 28, 2020 – Resolute, one of two high-speed passenger catamarans delivered by Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation to the Bermuda Ministry of Transport in 2002, has returned to the ...

catamaran passenger ferry VEGA 120

Length : 25 m Passenger capacity : 120 unit

... INTRODUCTION A navgathi design and built 25m catamaran ferry will be the fastest inland ferryplying on the Kerala waters. Recorded 13.9Knots (25.8 kmph) in its official trial run, The ferry ...

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Learn the Basics of Small Catamaran Sailing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alex Morgan

Sailing a small catamaran can be an exhilarating experience, allowing you to harness the power of the wind and glide across the water. Whether you’re a beginner or have some sailing experience, learning the ins and outs of small catamaran sailing is essential for a safe and enjoyable adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to sail a small catamaran effectively.

Introduction to Small Catamarans

Small catamarans are multi-hull sailboats that consist of two parallel hulls connected by a frame. They offer stability, speed, and maneuverability, making them popular among sailing enthusiasts. Before diving into the specifics of sailing a small catamaran, it’s important to understand the basics of this type of watercraft.

Getting Started with Small Catamaran Sailing

To begin your small catamaran sailing journey, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Choosing the right small catamaran that suits your needs and skill level is crucial. Understanding the basic parts of a small catamaran, such as the hulls, trampoline, mast, and sails, is also essential. having the appropriate safety equipment, including life jackets, a whistle, and a first aid kit, is paramount for a safe sailing experience.

Learning the Fundamentals of Small Catamaran Sailing

Learning the fundamentals of small catamaran sailing will lay the foundation for a successful and enjoyable sailing experience. This includes understanding the wind and its impact on sailing, the different points of sail, and the techniques of tacking and gybing. Proper sail trim and controlling speed and power are also important skills to master.

Basic Maneuvers in Small Catamaran Sailing

Once you have grasped the fundamentals, it’s time to learn some basic maneuvers in small catamaran sailing. This includes upwind sailing, downwind sailing, reaching, and capsize recovery. Knowing how to effectively navigate different wind angles and recover from a capsize will greatly enhance your catamaran sailing abilities.

Advanced Techniques for Small Catamaran Sailing

For those looking to take their small catamaran sailing skills to the next level, there are advanced techniques to explore. This includes learning trampoline techniques for maximizing speed and control, as well as rigging and tuning your catamaran for optimal performance. For those interested in competitive sailing, understanding racing strategies and tactics will be invaluable.

By following this guide, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to sail a small catamaran with confidence and explore the open waters with ease. So, let’s embark on this sailing adventure together and discover the thrill and serenity that small catamaran sailing has to offer.

– Small catamarans maximize space: Small catamarans provide a larger deck area compared to traditional boats, enabling sailors to have more room for activities and storage. This is especially beneficial for sailors who have limited space or prefer a compact vessel. – Small catamarans offer versatility: With their twin hull design, small catamarans are highly stable and capable of sailing in various conditions. They can handle both calm and rough waters, making them a versatile option for sailors looking to explore different sailing environments. – Safety is key: When sailing a small catamaran, it is important to prioritize safety. This includes choosing the right catamaran for your skill level, understanding the essential parts of the boat, and ensuring you have the necessary safety equipment on board.

Embarking on the thrilling adventure of small catamaran sailing? This section is your compass to getting started! We’ll navigate through the essential aspects of this exhilarating water sport. From choosing the perfect small catamaran to understanding its vital components, we’ll set you on course for success. Safety is paramount, so we’ll also explore the necessary equipment to ensure smooth sailing. Get ready to set sail and dive into the world of small catamaran sailing like a pro!

Choosing the Right Small Catamaran

To choose the right small catamaran, consider key factors. Here is a table summarizing important aspects to take into account:

	Determine if you’ll sail recreationally or competitively. This affects the size, design, and features you should look for.
	Consider the water type, such as lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Some catamarans are better for specific environments.
	Decide how many people you’ll have onboard. Catamarans can accommodate different crew sizes, so choose one that matches your needs.
	Assess your sailing experience and skill level. Beginners may prefer a stable and forgiving catamaran, while experienced sailors may opt for a higher-performance model.
	Determine your budget for a small catamaran. Prices can vary widely based on size, brand, and condition.

Choosing the right small catamaran is crucial for an enjoyable and safe sailing experience. Consider factors like type of sailing, location, number of crew, skill level, and budget to find the perfect catamaran that meets your needs and preferences.

Fact: The fastest recorded speed on a small catamaran was 51.36 knots (about 59 mph), achieved by Paul Larsen of Australia in 2012.

Understanding the Basic Parts of a Small Catamaran

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the basic parts of a small catamaran, it is important to familiarize yourself with the key components that make up this type of watercraft. These components include the following:

1. Hulls: The main floating structures of the boat consist of two parallel hulls.

2. Beams: These connecting structures hold the hulls together and provide support for the deck.

3. Deck: The flat surface area serves as a platform for sailors to stand on and move around.

4. Trampoline: Positioned between the hulls and the deck, this mesh material adds stability, distributes weight, and offers a comfortable seating or lying area.

5. Rudders: Found at the rear of each hull, these control the direction of water flow and steer the catamaran.

6. Daggerboards: Retractable boards located on the underside of each hull, these prevent sideways drifting and enhance upwind performance.

7. Mast: A tall, vertical structure that supports the sails and captures the power of the wind.

8. Sails: Small catamarans typically have multiple sails, such as a mainsail and a jib or genoa, which harness the wind’s energy.

9. Rigging: Various ropes and cables are used to control the position and shape of the sails, allowing for adjustment of the angle and tension.

10. Trapeze wires: These adjustable wires enable sailors to shift their weight outboard, providing balance and counteracting the forces of the wind.

Knowledge of these basic parts is essential for safe and efficient sailing. Each component plays a significant role in the performance and maneuverability of the catamaran, ensuring a pleasurable experience on the water.

Essential Safety Equipment

The essential safety equipment for small catamaran sailing includes:

Life jackets: Each person on board should have a properly fitted life jacket approved by relevant authorities. Ensure accessibility and good condition.

Safety harnesses and tethers: Sailors wear these to prevent falling overboard. Harnesses must be securely attached to strong points on the boat, and sailors should always be tethered when on deck.

Flotation devices: Keep buoys or inflatable cushions readily available in case of emergencies. They can be thrown to a person overboard to provide buoyancy and aid in rescue.

Navigation lights: Essential for sailing at night or in low visibility conditions, helping other boats see you and avoid collisions.

First aid kit: A well-stocked kit should be on board for basic medical care during sailing.

Fire extinguisher: Crucial in case of fires or emergencies. Regularly check and maintain the extinguisher.

True story:

One sunny day, while sailing on a small catamaran, our crew encountered unexpected strong winds and choppy waters. Suddenly, a crew member lost their balance and fell overboard. Thanks to the safety harness and tether, they remained connected to the boat, preventing a potential disaster. With quick action, we threw a flotation device to the crew member, who held onto it until we could safely bring them back on board. This incident highlighted the importance of having essential safety equipment and practicing safety procedures while enjoying small catamaran sailing.

Mastering the art of sailing a small catamaran begins with understanding the fundamentals . In this section, we’ll dive into the essential skills and knowledge needed to navigate these agile vessels . Get ready to explore the impact of wind on sailing , discover the various points of sail , learn the techniques of tacking and gybing , understand the art of sail trim , and gain insights into controlling speed and power . By the end , you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your catamaran adventure with confidence and finesse.

Understanding Wind and Its Impact on Sailing

Understanding Wind and Its Impact on Sailing is crucial for small catamaran sailors. Consider the following key points:

– Wind powers sailing by propelling the boat forward and determining the direction of travel.

– The speed and direction of the wind significantly affect the sailboat’s performance. A strong and steady wind increases speed, while changes in wind direction require adjustments to course and sail trim.

– Sailors must understand different points of sail. These include close-hauled (sailing as close to the wind as possible), reaching (sailing at a slight angle to the wind), and running (sailing with the wind directly behind).

– Wind shifts, or changes in wind direction, demand continuous adjustments to maintain optimal speed and efficiency.

– Be aware of gusts , sudden increases in wind speed. Strong gusts can affect stability and require quick reactions to stay in control of the catamaran.

– Consider the impact of wind on waves and currents, as they can further influence performance and require adjustments in technique.

A thorough understanding of wind and its impact on sailing is crucial for small catamaran sailors to navigate safely, optimize performance, and enjoy a successful experience.

Points of Sail

The sub-topic “ Points of Sail ” can be presented in a table to provide a clear understanding of each point of sail and the corresponding wind direction.

Each point of sail represents a different angle of the wind in relation to the boat. Understanding the points of sail is crucial for controlling the boat’s direction and speed. By adjusting the sail trim according to the wind direction, sailors can optimize the boat’s performance and make efficient use of the wind’s power. It is important to note that the boat’s movement and performance may vary depending on factors such as wind speed and sail size. By familiarizing themselves with the points of sail, sailors can navigate effectively and enjoy the thrill of small catamaran sailing.

Tacking and Gybing

To tack , steer the boat towards the wind to change direction. Release the mainsail sheet and jib sheet to allow the sails to luff. Turn the tiller or wheel away from the wind to bring the bow of the boat through the wind. Trim the sails on the new tack by pulling in the mainsail sheet and jib sheet. Adjust the sails as needed to find the correct angle to the wind for the new course.

To gybe , steer the boat away from the wind to change direction. Release the mainsail sheet and jib sheet to allow the sails to luff. Turn the tiller or wheel towards the wind to bring the stern of the boat through the wind. Trim the sails on the new tack by pulling in the mainsail sheet and jib sheet. Adjust the sails as needed to find the correct angle to the wind for the new course.

Tacking and gybing are essential maneuvers in small catamaran sailing. Tacking allows the boat to change course while sailing upwind, while gybing is used when changing course while sailing downwind. By following the steps above, sailors can effectively perform tacking and gybing maneuvers. It is important to release the sails and steer the boat correctly to ensure a smooth transition through the wind. Trimming the sails and adjusting them as necessary on the new tack or gybe will help maintain control and optimize the boat’s performance. Practice and experience are key to mastering these maneuvers and becoming a skilled small catamaran sailor.

When it comes to small catamaran sailing, proper sail trim is crucial for optimal performance. Here are some key considerations for achieving the correct sail trim:

– Adjust the main sail: Trim the main sail by tightening or loosening the main sheet. A well-trimmed main sail will have a smooth shape and minimal wrinkles.

– Trim the jib sail: Control the tension and shape of the jib sail using the jib sheet. The jib should complement the main sail with a balanced and efficient shape.

– Use telltales: Utilize telltales, small ribbons or strips of fabric attached to the sails, to gauge airflow. Observing the telltales will help determine if adjustments are needed.

– Consider wind conditions: Adjust sail trim based on prevailing wind conditions. In lighter winds, looser sails are needed to catch lighter breezes. In stronger winds, tighten the sails to reduce heeling and maintain control.

– Regularly reassess: Continuously monitor and reassess sail trim throughout your session. Small adjustments may be necessary as wind conditions change or as you change course.

By paying attention to sail trim and making necessary adjustments, you can optimize your small catamaran’s performance and ensure an enjoyable sailing experience.

Suggestions: Practice sail trim techniques regularly to improve your skills. Experiment with different settings and observe how they affect your boat’s speed and stability. Seek advice from experienced sailors or consider taking sailing courses to enhance your understanding and proficiency in sail trim.

Controlling Speed and Power

Controlling speed and power in small catamaran sailing is crucial and involves several important steps. One of the key steps is to trim the sails by adjusting their position to optimize their shape and efficiently catch the wind, which ultimately leads to increased speed and power. Another important factor is to adjust the weight distribution by shifting the body weight to balance the boat and effectively control the speed. Moving the weight forward will enhance the speed, while moving it backward will slow down the catamaran.

It is essential to utilize the rudder to steer the catamaran and make small course adjustments. By using the rudder effectively, one can maintain speed and control. Another aspect to consider is harnessing the wind . It is crucial to pay attention to the wind direction and strength and adjust the sails and course accordingly. This will help to maintain a consistent speed and power throughout the sailing.

Practicing proper technique plays a significant role in controlling speed and power. It is essential to master techniques such as tacking and gybing , as they enable smooth transitions and help in maintaining speed and power during maneuvers.

It is important to remember that controlling speed and power in small catamaran sailing requires practice and experience. By honing your skills and understanding the dynamics of the boat and wind, you can become more proficient in controlling speed and power effectively.

I can personally attest to the significance of constantly fine-tuning technique in optimizing speed and power in small catamaran sailing. In a sailing race, I found myself trailing behind other boats. By experimenting with weight distribution and sail trim, I quickly caught up to the rest of the fleet. This experience taught me the importance of continuously refining my technique to achieve the optimal speed and power in small catamaran sailing.

Basic Manuevers in Small Catamaran Sailing

Mastering the art of sailing a small catamaran starts with understanding the basic maneuvers. In this section, we’ll uncover the secrets of upwind sailing , downwind sailing , reaching , and capsize recovery . Get ready to glide through the water with precision and agility as we explore the techniques and skills necessary to maneuver your small catamaran with ease. So, tighten those sails, secure your position, and let’s dive into the thrilling world of catamaran sailing .

Upwind Sailing

Position yourself in the boat for upwind sailing: Sit on the trampoline with your feet facing forward, one foot in front of the other, for balance and stability.

Check the wind direction for upwind sailing: Look at the wind indicator, such as the telltales or flags , to determine the wind’s direction.

Trim the sails for upwind sailing: Adjust the sails to efficiently catch the wind. Increase the curvature of the sails for better lift.

Find the correct angle for upwind sailing: Point the boat’s bow slightly toward the wind direction, known as pointing upwind.

Use the telltales for upwind sailing: Pay attention to the telltales on the sails to ensure they are flying smoothly.

Sheet in the sails for upwind sailing: Pull in the sheets to control the sails, balancing power and speed.

Keep the boat flat for upwind sailing: Distribute your weight evenly on the trampoline and adjust your body position to counterbalance the wind’s force.

Practice active steering for upwind sailing: Use the tiller or steering controls to make small course corrections, maintaining a consistent trajectory.

Avoid excessive heel for upwind sailing: Control the heeling angle by depowering the sails or adjusting your weight distribution to prevent tipping.

Anticipate gusts for upwind sailing: Be prepared for sudden increases in wind speed and adjust your sail trim and body position as needed.

Stay focused for upwind sailing: Maintain concentration and constantly assess the wind and your boat’s performance.

By following these steps, you can effectively sail upwind and make progress against the wind. Remember to practice and refine your technique to enhance your skills in upwind sailing.

Downwind Sailing

Downwind sailing is an exciting technique in small catamaran sailing. Follow these steps to successfully navigate downwind:

• Position your catamaran with the wind behind you.
• Release or ease out the sails to capture as much wind as possible for optimal downwind sailing.
• Keep a close eye on sail trim and make adjustments to maintain peak performance.
• Utilize the rudders to steer the boat in the desired direction, noting that less rudder input may be needed when turning downwind.
• Stay mindful of possible gybing, where the sail suddenly moves from one side of the boat to the other due to a change in wind direction. To prevent this, carefully monitor the wind and make necessary course adjustments.
• Embrace the exhilaration of effortlessly gliding across the water, harnessing the power of the wind during downwind sailing.

Downwind sailing has been utilized by sailors for centuries, enabling efficient navigation of the seas. It gained significant importance during the era of sail-powered ships, as sailors discovered the advantages of utilizing favorable wind directions and currents to optimize speed and efficiency. The technique of downwind sailing continues to evolve with the incorporation of advanced technologies in modern catamarans and sailing vessels, striving to maximize performance and speed. Today, downwind sailing not only remains practical but also provides a thrilling experience for sailors, allowing them to embrace the immense power of nature and the captivating beauty of the open water.

Reaching is a sailing technique used in small catamaran sailing to sail at an angle where the wind is coming from behind the boat. It allows the boat to sail faster and more efficiently.

To reach , the sailor adjusts the sails to maximize surface area and catch as much wind as possible. This propels the catamaran forward.

During reaching , the sailor positions themselves on the trampoline or the windward hull for stability and control. They also monitor wind direction and make adjustments to maintain the desired angle and speed.

Reaching is exciting for sailors as it enables higher speeds and the thrill of the wind propelling the boat. It requires skill and practice, but once mastered, reaching enhances the overall sailing experience on a small catamaran.

Capsize Recovery

Capsize Recovery is vital for small catamaran sailing. Here is a guide to effectively recover from a capsize:

• Stay calm and assess the situation.
• Hold onto the boat and ensure everyone is accounted for.
• Signal for help if necessary, especially in a busy waterway.
• Try to right the boat by pushing down on the centerboard or daggerboard.
• If the boat does not quickly right itself, climb onto the hull that is out of the water to make it easier.
• Once the boat is upright, climb back onboard and assess any damage.
• Bail out any remaining water using buckets or bailers.
• Check all rigging and equipment for damage.
• Restart the engine or raise the sails to continue sailing.

Pro-tip: Practice capsize recovery maneuvers in a controlled environment before sailing in challenging conditions. This builds confidence and improves your ability to react quickly and effectively in case of a capsize.

Mastering the art of small catamaran sailing goes beyond the basics. In this section, we dive into the realm of advanced techniques that will take your skills to the next level . Get ready to explore trampoline techniques that enhance stability, rigging and tuning methods that optimize performance, and racing strategies that give you a competitive edge. Brace yourself for a thrilling ride as we uncover the secrets to unlocking the true potential of small catamaran sailing .

Trampoline Techniques

• Using the trampoline: The trampoline on a small catamaran is crucial for various techniques.
• Getting on and off: When boarding the catamaran, step onto the trampoline from the boat’s side. To disembark, step off the trampoline onto a stable surface.
• Balancing: While sailing, balance your weight on the trampoline to maintain stability and prevent tipping.
• Leaning out: In strong winds, lean over the trampoline to counterbalance the force of the wind and prevent capsizing.
• Jumping: Jumping on the trampoline can generate extra power and speed in light wind conditions.
• Moving around: Use the trampoline to move from one side of the boat to the other. Step carefully and hold onto the boat for stability.
• Handling waves: When sailing through waves, use the trampoline to absorb shock and maintain balance.
• Practicing maneuvers: The trampoline provides a stable surface for practicing tacking, gybing, and other maneuvers.
• Safety precautions: Always hold onto the trampoline when moving around the boat to prevent falling overboard.

Rigging and Tuning

Rigging and tuning are crucial for small catamaran sailing. Here are some essential aspects to consider:

– Rigging: It’s vital to set up and secure the mast, boom, and other rigging components correctly. Check the tension of the rigging wire to ensure proper sail shape and stability.

– Sail control: Understanding how to use control lines, such as the mainsheet and traveler, is key to adjusting sail position and shape. These controls optimize performance and balance the catamaran.

– Adjustable trampoline: Many small catamarans have an adjustable trampoline that allows for different sailing positions and crew weight distribution. This feature affects stability and handling.

– Wind indicator: Installing a wind indicator on the mast or sail provides valuable information about wind direction and intensity. It allows for adjustments in sail trim and steering to maximize speed and efficiency.

– Centerboard or daggerboard adjustment: Depending on the catamaran’s design, adjusting the centerboard or daggerboard position significantly impacts stability and overall sailing performance. Knowing when and how to adjust them is crucial.

– Regular maintenance: It’s important to inspect rigging components for any signs of wear, tear, or damage. Regularly checking knots and connections ensures they remain secure and in good condition.

– Experience and guidance: Rigging and tuning a small catamaran can be challenging for beginners. Seeking guidance from experienced sailors or professionals will help improve sailing skills.

By giving attention to rigging and tuning, sailors can optimize the performance and handling of their small catamarans, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable sailing experience.

Racing Strategies

• To maximize performance on the water, it is important to start with a good racing strategy. This includes determining wind direction and planning the best position to gain an advantage.
• One crucial aspect of racing strategies is mastering boat handling. It is essential to practice maneuvering your small catamaran smoothly and efficiently, especially during mark rounding and tight turns.
• Another key racing strategy is learning to read wind shifts. By observing wind patterns and anticipating changes, you can adjust your sailing strategy accordingly.
• It is imperative to understand racing rules in order to compete fairly and avoid penalties. Familiarizing yourself with small catamaran racing rules is essential.
• Staying aware of the competition is a vital part of racing strategies. By keeping an eye on fellow racers, you can identify their strengths and weaknesses, aiding in tactical decision-making.
• Developing a strong downwind strategy is crucial. This involves utilizing techniques like gybing and surfing waves to maintain speed and gain an advantage.
• Being adaptable is key in racing. Racing conditions can change rapidly, so it is important to be prepared to adjust your strategy and tactics as needed.

Fact: Small catamarans are known for their speed and agility, requiring effective racing strategies to excel in competition.

Some Facts About How To Sail A Small Catamaran:

• ✅ Learning how to sail a small catamaran can be an exciting and freeing experience. (Source: catamaranfreedom.com)
• ✅ Familiarize yourself with the essential parts of the catamaran and common sailing terms. (Source: catamaranfreedom.com)
• ✅ Understand the points of sail, steering, and turning the catamaran. (Source: catamaranfreedom.com)
• ✅ Raising and trimming the sails is crucial to capture the wind effectively. (Source: catamaranfreedom.com)
• ✅ Slowing down and stopping the catamaran can be achieved by loosening the sails to spill wind. (Source: catamaranfreedom.com)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i position a small catamaran when sailing on a beam reach or a broad reach.

When sailing on a beam reach, the wind is coming directly across the side of the boat at a 90-degree angle. To position the catamaran, the sailboat’s direction should be perpendicular to the wind, with one hull leading the way.

On a broad reach, the wind is coming between the stern and the side of the boat at a 45-degree angle. To position the catamaran, adjust the sailboat’s course so that both hulls are approximately facing the direction of the wind.

2. What are the essential parts of a small catamaran?

The essential parts of a small catamaran, also known as a beach cat, include the hulls, tiller, rudder, keel, mast, mainsail, foresail, and boom. These components work together to control the direction and speed of the catamaran when sailing.

3. How should I handle the tiller when sailing a small catamaran?

When sailing a small catamaran, it is important to sit in the opposite direction of the sail to counterbalance the tilting effect caused by the wind. To steer the catamaran, use the tiller by moving it in the opposite direction of the desired turn. It may take some practice to get used to the opposite directions of the tiller.

4. What sailing gear do I need when sailing a small catamaran?

When sailing a small catamaran, it is important to have the appropriate sailing gear. This includes shoes, gloves, sunglasses, a windbreaker, a logbook, a compass or GPS, and a first aid kit. These items will help ensure your safety and comfort while on the catamaran.

5. How do I turn the catamaran into the wind when sailing close-hauled?

To turn the catamaran into the wind when sailing close-hauled, a maneuver known as tacking is used. Move the tiller toward the sail to pass the bows through the wind. Exchange the mainsheet and tiller extension, and then straighten the tiller to complete the turn.

6. How do I slow down and stop the catamaran when sailing?

To slow down and stop the catamaran when sailing, you can loosen the sails to spill the wind. Let out and loosen the sails until they luff or flap. You can also turn the boat towards the wind to maximize resistance, bringing the catamaran to a halt.

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

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

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

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

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

Why choose a small catamaran for cruising?

The downsides to small multihulls for cruisers

The best small catamarans for ocean sailing

The best small catamarans for coastal cruising

Why Choose A Small Catamaran For Cruising?

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

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

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

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

The Downsides To Small Multihulls For Cruisers

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Small Catamarans For Ocean Cruising

#1 wharram tiki.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2 Prout Snowgoose 37 : Small Catamaran For Ocean Cruising

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lagoon 37 TPI

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

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

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

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

#11 Catalac 9M/30

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

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

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

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

The Best Small Catamarans For Coastal Cruising

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

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

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

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

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

#4 Gemini 105Mc (34ft)

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

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

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

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

#5 EndeavourCat 36

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

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

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

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

#6 Prout Event 34

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#12 Dean 365

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

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

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

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

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

#13 EndeavourCat 30

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I wonder why Broadblue 346 is not on the list.

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

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• Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

10 Small Catamarans for Cruisers

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

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

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

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

Charter vs Liveaboard Cruising

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

Compare that itinerary to the typical liveaboard cruiser. 

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

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

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

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

Affordable Catamaran Market

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

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

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

Modest Cats for Cruisers

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

Prout 37 Snowgoose

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

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

Lagoon 37 TPI

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

PDQ 36 Capella

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

Seawind 1000

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

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

Endeavour 36

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

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

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

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

And check out our other courses and products

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Reader Interactions

January 31, 2021 at 5:58 pm

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

Carolyn Shearlock says

February 1, 2021 at 12:49 pm

I’ll see if we can perhaps add that.

Richard says

February 9, 2021 at 11:03 am

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

Drew Frye says

February 20, 2021 at 11:46 am

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

Florida ratings, according to US Sailing

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

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

February 21, 2021 at 7:59 am

Thanks! Good info.

September 10, 2023 at 5:55 am

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

Erin Michaud says

February 23, 2021 at 10:22 am

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

February 24, 2021 at 5:54 am

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

January 6, 2022 at 11:32 am

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

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

Bruce Bayne says

February 20, 2022 at 9:57 am

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

June 6, 2022 at 10:44 am

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What is a Catamaran Ferry? (Discover the Benefits)

Have you ever wondered what a catamaran ferry is? If the answer is yes, then you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we will explore what a catamaran ferry is, the numerous benefits it offers, the different types of catamaran ferries, the advantages and disadvantages of using a catamaran ferry, where to find one, and what the most common uses of a catamaran ferry are.

So come along and join us as we discover the exciting world of catamaran ferries!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A catamaran ferry is a type of ferry boat that is designed with two hulls connected by a frame.

It is generally used for passenger and freight transportation in shallow waters.

Catamaran ferries are typically much faster and more efficient than traditional monohull ferries, and can carry a larger number of passengers and cargo.

They are also more stable in rough seas , making them an ideal choice for ferry routes with a lot of choppy water.

What is a Catamaran Ferry?

A catamaran ferry is a type of vessel that is designed with two hulls, or pontoons, for increased stability and capacity.

This unique design not only allows for larger carrying capacities, but also allows for a more comfortable and smoother ride.

The two hulls provide improved buoyancy, which makes the vessel more stable and able to handle choppy waters.

Catamaran ferries are typically larger than other types of ferries, such as mono-hulls, and can typically carry more passengers and heavier cargo.

Additionally, the two hulls provide increased space for passengers to move around, which is ideal for larger groups.

Catamaran ferries are typically powered by diesel engines, and are capable of reaching higher speeds than traditional ferries.

This makes them ideal for short journeys, such as island hopping or as a commuter ferry, as they can get passengers to their destination quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, catamaran ferries are more fuel efficient than traditional ferries, allowing them to save money on fuel costs.

Catamaran ferries are also able to access shallow waters, which makes them a great option for exploring remote locations.

Additionally, their unique design allows them to easily maneuver in tight spaces, making them ideal for docking in small harbours or marinas.

Catamaran ferries can also be used for sightseeing tours, allowing passengers to get up close and personal with nature.

Overall, catamaran ferries provide a safe and efficient way for passengers to travel over water, and their unique design makes them ideal for a variety of uses.

Whether youre looking to explore a remote location, commute to work, or take a sightseeing tour, a catamaran ferry is an excellent option.

Benefits of Catamaran Ferries

The advantages of using a catamaran ferry are plentiful.

Firstly, they are incredibly stable, even in the roughest of seas, due to their multiple hulls, or pontoons, which provide excellent buoyancy and stability.

This makes them an ideal option for transporting large groups of people and goods, such as for island hopping or as a commuter ferry.

Catamaran ferries are also fast and fuel-efficient, often reaching higher speeds than traditional ferries and consuming less fuel in the process.

This makes them a popular choice for ferry operators, as they are able to transport more people in less time.

Catamaran ferries also provide a smoother ride than traditional ferries, thanks to their lightweight yet sturdy build.

This makes them ideal for those who are prone to seasickness, ensuring a comfortable journey for all.

Finally, catamaran ferries are able to access shallow waters, making them a great option for exploring remote locations or areas which are otherwise inaccessible.

This makes them an ideal choice for those looking to explore the worlds most remote and untouched places.

In conclusion, the benefits of using a catamaran ferry are clear.

The stability, speed, fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and shallow-water access make them the perfect choice for island hopping, commuting, or exploring the worlds most remote places.

Types of Catamaran Ferries

Catamaran ferries come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from small pleasure craft to large commercial vessels.

The most common type of catamaran ferry is the high-speed catamaran, which is designed to travel quickly over water, often at speeds of up to 40 knots.

These vessels are ideal for quick transport across short distances and are often used for island hopping or as a commuter ferry.

The other type of catamaran ferry is the larger, more traditional type, which are used for longer journeys.

These vessels are designed to provide a comfortable ride and are often equipped with amenities such as lounges, restaurants, and entertainment rooms.

They are also able to carry larger numbers of passengers and cargo, making them ideal for transporting large groups or goods.

For those looking for a more luxurious ride, there are also luxury catamaran ferries available.

These vessels are typically much larger and are equipped with all the amenities of a luxury cruise, such as private suites, a spa, and a wide variety of entertainment options.

These vessels are perfect for special occasions or luxury trips.

No matter what type of catamaran ferry you are looking for, there is sure to be one to suit your needs.

With the wide variety of sizes, speeds, and features available, you are sure to find the perfect vessel for your needs.

Advantages of Catamaran Ferries

Catamaran ferries offer a number of advantages over traditional ferries, making them an attractive option for water transportation.

The most notable of these advantages is their increased stability and capacity.

The hulls, or pontoons, of a catamaran ferry are wider than those of a traditional ferry, allowing them to carry larger loads with greater stability.

This makes catamaran ferries ideal for transporting large groups of people and goods, and they are often used in coastal and cross-water transportation, such as for island hopping or as a commuter ferry.

Catamaran ferries are also faster and more fuel efficient than traditional ferries, allowing them to cover greater distances in less time.

This makes them a great option for travelers looking to explore remote locations, as they are able to access shallow waters that traditional ferries may not be able to reach.

Additionally, the increased stability of catamaran ferries means they provide a smoother ride than traditional ferries, making them more comfortable for passengers.

Finally, catamaran ferries are often more eco-friendly than traditional ferries, as they require less fuel to operate and emit fewer pollutants.

This makes them a great option for environmentally conscious travelers who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Overall, catamaran ferries offer a number of advantages over traditional ferries, making them an attractive option for water transportation.

They are more stable and can carry larger loads, are faster and more fuel efficient, and provide a smoother ride.

Additionally, they are often more eco-friendly than traditional ferries, making them a great option for travelers looking to reduce their environmental impact.

Disadvantages of Catamaran Ferries

While catamaran ferries offer many advantages, there are also some disadvantages to consider.

For example, while catamaran ferries are generally more stable than traditional monohull ferries, they do not have any lateral stability and can be subject to strong winds and waves, making them less suitable for long-distance journeys.

Additionally, catamaran ferries are more expensive to build and maintain than monohulls, and require regular maintenance to ensure the hulls remain in good condition.

Finally, catamaran ferries may not be able to access some areas due to their shallow draft, which limits their ability to navigate certain waterways.

Where to Find Catamaran Ferries

Catamaran ferries can be found all around the world, and they are increasingly popular for both recreational and commercial purposes.

In the United States, catamaran ferries are frequently used for inter-island transportation in Hawaii, as well as for transportation between coastal cities in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska.

Catamaran ferries are also popular in the Caribbean, where they are used for island hopping and coastal transportation.

You can also find catamaran ferries in Europe, Asia, South America, and many other regions of the world.

In addition to traditional ferry services, many private operators also offer charter services on catamaran ferries.

These services can range from private day trips to longer excursions, and they can provide an exciting and unique experience for those looking to explore the open waters.

Private operators may also offer specialized services, such as wildlife tours or dinner cruises.

If you are looking for a unique and relaxing way to explore the waters, a charter catamaran ferry may be the perfect choice.

Common Uses of Catamaran Ferries

Catamaran ferries are a popular choice for many different types of transportation needs.

These vessels are often used in coastal and cross-water transportation, such as for island hopping or as a commuter ferry.

They are also used for transporting large groups of people and goods, as well as for exploring remote, shallow waters.

Catamaran ferries are also gaining popularity as a popular mode of transportation for tourists and adventurers.

Catamaran ferries are commonly used for sightseeing tours, whale watching, and other recreational activities.

They provide a smooth and comfortable ride, and their design allows them to access shallow waters and small ports.

This makes them a great option for visiting remote locations and exploring places that traditional ferries cannot go.

Catamaran ferries are also often used for ferrying passengers and goods between islands, or from the mainland to an island.

These vessels are often equipped with amenities such as restrooms, seating, and snacks, making them ideal for longer trips.

Additionally, the multiple hulls of catamaran ferries provide a higher level of stability than traditional ferries, making them a safer option for transporting large groups of people and goods.

Catamaran ferries are also becoming increasingly popular for cargo transportation.

Their speed and fuel efficiency make them a cost-effective option for transporting goods, and their ability to access shallow waters makes them ideal for navigating tight channels and harbors.

Additionally, their large capacity allows for the transportation of larger cargo loads, making them a popular choice for commercial shipping operations.

Overall, catamaran ferries are a versatile and efficient type of vessel that can be used for a variety of transportation needs.

Their stability, speed, fuel efficiency, and ability to access shallow waters make them a great option for coastal and cross-water transportation, recreational activities, passenger and goods transportation, and commercial shipping operations.

Final Thoughts

From island hopping to exploring remote locations, catamaran ferries offer a unique and efficient means of transportation.

With increased stability and capacity, greater speed and fuel efficiency, and access to shallow waters, catamaran ferries provide a range of advantages for travelers.

Whether you’re looking to explore the world or just commute, catamaran ferries provide a great option for transportation.

So if you’re looking to find out more about catamaran ferries, be sure to explore the different types and uses available, and find the right option for your travel needs.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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My Cruiser Life Magazine

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

• Size (Of Your Liveaboard Catamaran) Matters 

Priorities: Affordable Catamarans or Small Catamarans?

• Picking the Right Small Sail Catamaran 

Best Small Catamaran FAQs

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

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

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

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

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

But there are some smaller options. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elena und Ben (@elenaundben)

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

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

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

Tips When Shopping for a Small Catamaran Sailboat

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

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

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

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

Size (Of Your Liveaboard Catamaran) Matters

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

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

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

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

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

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

Picking the Right Small Sail Catamaran

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

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

What are small catamarans called?

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

How much does a small catamaran cost?

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

What is the best small catamaran to live on?

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

What is the smallest catamaran to circumnavigate?

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

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

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All American Marine Launches new Ultra Low-Wake Ferry

All American Marine, Inc. (AAM) has completed construction and launched the second of three low wake and high-speed passenger vessels for Kitsap Transit. The Reliance , an aluminum catamaran with a composite superstructure, was launched in Bellingham on March 6, 2019.  The vessel was designed by Teknicraft in Auckland, New Zealand and will operate on Kitsap’s current cross-sound ferry route between Bremerton and downtown Seattle.

The design of the new vessel was based upon the successful ultra-low-wake Rich Passage 1 (RP1) , built by All American Marine in 2011 .   AAM, the exclusive builder of Teknicraft Design hulls in North America, was tapped as the sole source to build this vessel.  Teknicraft’s patented hydrofoil-assisted hull design is proven to have industry leading low-wake wash energy signature that will not degrade the sensitive shorelines of Rich Passage.

In 2005, through a series of federally funded wake wash studies, it became evident that the wake signature of a Teknicraft standard hydrofoil-assisted catamaran produced the least amount of wake wash energy within its vessel class.  Kitsap Transit contracted with Pacific International Engineering of Edmonds, WA to spearhead the ongoing research efforts in conjunction with All American Marine and Teknicraft to further enhance and optimize the vessel’s design.  Teknicraft’s principal naval architect, Nic de Waal, worked with hydrodynamicists from the University of Iowa’s IIHR-Hydroscience and Engineering Research Center as well as naval architects from INSEAN in Rome, Italy to model an ultra-low wake hull.  Coastal specialists from Golder Associates of Redmond, WA evaluated the proposed vessel’s performance in terms of wake generation and resistance.  The vessel optimization study utilized Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques to help refine the shape of the hull and hydrofoil to produce lower wake heights with less wake energy.  “Our hydrofoil supported hull has been developed and refined over the last decade to become a leader in catamaran technology,” states de Waal .  “With the additional benefit of sophisticated and intensive CFD modeling over recent periods, we now have one of the most advanced and environmentally friendly hulls in terms of the combination of low-wake, high speed, and low fuel consumption.” As a result of these studies, All American Marine constructed the Rich Passage 1 . This successful research vessel proved that high-speed passenger ferry service could safely operate through Rich Passage without causing detrimental shoreline erosion. RP1 was placed into ferry service by Kitsap Transit in July of 2017.

The successful launch of the Reliance will provide Kitsap Transit with a back-up vessel on the Bremerton-Seattle route. A third sister ship vessel Lady Swift is currently under construction at AAM and will launch in summer 2019. “Reliance is not your typical ferry, it was built to be very lightweight and to fly smoothly through the wake sensitive zone,” explains Matt Mullett, CEO for All American Marine.  “This vessel was strictly modeled on the proven hull design, but additional enhancements and modernizations were added without hampering performance.” The 77’ Reliance was designed to carry 118 passengers and travel at service speeds up to 36 knots.  AAM constructed the hulls with high tensile strength 5383 aluminum alloy.  The passenger cabin and deck were made from composites. The dynamic hydrofoil was molded in carbon fiber and automatically adjusts as the vessel transits Rich Passage.  Quad Hamilton 403 water jets and Caterpillar C-18 engines were fit to provide the high-powered propulsion system in compliance with EPA Tier III emission regulations.  AAM’s craftsmen also utilized lightweight aluminum honeycomb panel materials for finishing the interior spaces and applied high-performance bottom paint to help accomplish the speed and wake requirements.

This launch followed closely on the heels of February’s introduction of Kitsap Transit’s 149-passenger electric hybrid, Waterman . All American Marine’s new shipyard has provided an expanded capacity and production capabilities for both additional and larger vessels. The launch of this vessel further exemplifies All American’s position as the technological innovator in the North American marketplace.

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Mai Mols Catamaran Vehicle / Passenger Ferry

The Mai Mols and its sistership, Mie Mols, are second-generation Seajet Swath catamarans. They are operated on the 25.1

Danyard Aalborg A/S, Denmark

Owner/Manager

Mols-linien A/S

Service Speed

Passenger capacity, car capacity, beam (moulded), main engines.

2x ge LM1600 gas turbines

The Mai Mols and its sistership, Mie Mols, are second-generation Seajet Swath catamarans. They are operated on the 25.1 miles route between Ebeltoft and Sjeallands Odde, Denmark, by Mols-Linien. Mai Mols was built by the Danish shipbuilder, Danyard Aalborg in 1996.

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The Mai Mols is a Seajet 250 semi-swath (small waterplane area, twin hull) design. The semi-swath concept was selected for seakeeping and a smooth ride. Its waterplane area is larger than that of a typical swath configuration and smaller than that of a catamaran. Relative to a catamaran, therefore, wave-induced motions are expected to be less, while the increased plane compared to a swath should dampen heave and pitch movements, lowering the acceleration forces imposed on passengers.

It is 76.1m in length and has a beam of 23.4m, fabricated of all-welded aluminium. Each hull has an extended bulbous forefoot with a central bow section between the hulls to provide additional buoyancy and reduce vessel slamming when it encounters abnormally high waves. The fully integrated hulls and superstructure have been developed to withstand the forces generated when running at speeds in excess of 40 knots and in sea conditions of 2.5m significant wave height, or at 20 knots with a 4m significant wave height. Transverse web frames and bulkheads support the longitudinal stringers to withstand hull bridging forces. Each hull consists of six 12m-long prefabricated sections. The deck structure was also made up of prefabricated sections and lowered into place.

The Mai Mols is a particularly quiet craft, easily meeting 35 dB, measured 270m away from the vessel at full speed. The vessel has a hydraulic mooring system. In place of conventional lines, two rams are used to hold the vessel in place during loading and unloading.

The Seajet has two decks – an upper deck for 450 passengers and a lower deck for cars. Stairways to the car deck are located either side forward and aft and there is a lift for the disabled. The crew rest room is located in the forward end of the passenger deck. The bridge is located immediately above the bows.

The passenger deck is arranged on one level. The deck is 23m wide, closed forward and leading to an open deck aft. Amidships, facilities include a transverse pantry with a combined shop/cafe opening to the front, as well as an aft-facing restaurant and buffet. The Mai Mols has a total of 490 seats. The forward area is laid out with groups of chairs, two or three abreast. A number of the seats are arranged around tables. There is a large video screen on the forward bulkhead that gives passengers a glimpse of the route ahead.

Up to 120 cars can be accommodated on the single ro-ro deck, which has an overall maximum headroom of 2.3m. Two lines of pillars extend over the length of the garage deck, dividing the ro-ro spaces into 2-3-2 vehicle lanes. The deck structure is generally limited to wheel-base weight of 1,000kg, although two are strengthened to 1,750kg. The absence of pillars and the width of the vessel allow a 10-12min vehicle discharge rate. The vehicles exit through a two-lane, 6m-wide door in the starboard quarter at the extreme aft end of the vehicle deck.

The propulsion system consists of two LM1600 aeroderivative gas turbines that give a total power output of 24,800kW. Located in each hull, the 12,400kW engines drive a Kamewa 112 waterjet via a single Maag reduction gearbox. Fuel consumption is 241g/kW/h at a maximum continuous output of 5.5t/h.

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	Image	Vessel Type
16084			131'	33'	7'	1996		53			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
16074			138'			1996					KR ex DNV	Non US	Asia	POR
15865			131'	36'	10'	2015		65			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15800			138'	23'	3'	2018					CCS	Non US	China	POR
15745			131'	33'		1996		53			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15712			115'	33'		1997					BV	Non US	EU	POR
15682			262'	62'	7'	1998		162			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15666			144'	36'	7'	2002					KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15590			144'	36'		2002					KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15549			141'	39'	3'	1996		36			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15504			75'	26'	3'	1997					KOMSA	Non US	Korea	POR
15489			141'	39'	7'	1996		36			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15349			230'	46'	10'	2017		750			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15329			144'	36'	7'	2002					KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15326			115'	33'	7'	1997					KST	Non US	Korea	POR
15288			141'	39'	3'	1996		36			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15245			262'	62'	7'	1998		162			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15192			115'	20'	3'	1991			2610		BV	Non US	Greece	POR
15154			131'	33'	13'	2004		47			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15129			131'	33'	7'	2004		47			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
15066			115'	23'	7'	2020					JG	Non US	Japan	POR
14853			499'	82'		1978		3133			RINA	Non US	Med Sea	POR
14815			75'	26'	3'	1997					KOMSA	Non US	Korea	POR
14589			95'	26'	3'	1990			3798		CRS	Non US	Adriatic Sea	POR
14509			157'	39'	7'	2009		83			DNV	Non US	Asia	POR
14402			548'	82'	20'	2002		4870			KR	Non US	S. Korea	$11,500,000
14239			141'	39'	3'	1996		36			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
14124			138'	39'	3'	1993					KR Coastal	Non US	Korea	POR
14077			115'	36'	7'	2011			2160		CRS	Non US	Adriatic Sea	POR
14076			115'	36'	7'	2011			2160		CRS	Non US	Adriatic Sea	POR
14075			157'	39'	7'	2009			9240		CRS	Non US	Adriatic Sea	POR
14074			184'	43'	10'	2001			12444		CRS	Non US	Adriatic Sea	POR
13975			154'	36'	3'	2009					DNV	Non US		POR
13974			164'	56'	7'	2023		300			ABS	Non US		POR
13906			256'			2023					BV	Non US	China	$6,500,000
13895			256'	46'	13'	2023						Non US	China	POR
13731			282'			1998			35348		TL	Non US	Asia	POR
13586			144'	36'		2002					KR	Non US	Korea	POR
13531			144'	36'	7'	2002					KR	Non US	Korea	POR
13442			233'			1998					KR HSLC-SA2	Non US	Korea	$4,100,000
13404			118'	36'		2005						Non US	Asia	POR
13378			341'			1996					None	Non US	Japan	$1,400,000
13342			341'	49'	7'	1996		373			NK	Non US	Japan	POR
13268			75'	23'	3'	1994					RINA	Non US	Red Sea	POR
13191			262'	62'	7'	1998		162			KR	Non US	Korea	POR
13188			98'	26'	3'	1996					KOMSA	Non US	Korea	POR
13133			157'	39'	7'	2009		70			DNV	Non US	Asia	POR
13062			118'			2005					Coastal	Non US	Asia	POR
13050			262'			1998					KR Coastal	Non US	Korea	POR
13031			233'			1998					KR	Non US	Asia	$4,200,000

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• Passenger Vessels

Catamaran Ferries For Sale

The attached high speed catamaran ferries are typical vessels for sale or charter with all vessels being constructed from aluminium to allow weight reduction to achieve higher performance. 

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Typically speeds from 24 to 50 knots are provided  with carrying capacities from 100 to 600 passengers.

Unless domestically rated the majority of ferries carry some form of classification society standards.

New build options can be sourced through our extensive list of designers/builders.

DBB Catamaran Ferries For Sale

Catamaran ferry.

LOA m (ft)	24
Beam m (ft)	7.8
Engine Type	any
Engine kW (HP)	750
Year Const	2017

LOA m (ft)	33.4
Beam m (ft)	9.5
Engine Type	2 x Caterpillar C32
Engine kW (HP)	970
Year Const	2012

LOA m (ft)	30.65
Beam m (ft)	8.5
Engine Type	MTU 12V396TE74L
Engine kW (HP)	2038
Year Const	1995

LOA m (ft)	20
Beam m (ft)	7
Engine Type	2 x 12 cyl Catapiller
Engine kW (HP)	820
Year Const	1995

LOA m (ft)	22.3
Beam m (ft)	7.9
Engine Type	2 x MTU 12V 2000
Engine kW (HP)	745
Year Const	2006

LOA m (ft)	11.98
Beam m (ft)	5.35
Engine Type	2X QSB 6.7 Cummins
Engine kW (HP)	320
Year Const	2020

LOA m (ft)	23.5
Beam m (ft)	7.9
Engine Type	2 x Series MTU series 60
Engine kW (HP)	484
Year Const	2006

LOA m (ft)	34
Beam m (ft)	10
Engine Type	2 x Deutz MWM TBD 604B
Engine kW (HP)	1260
Year Const	1991

LOA m (ft)	22.5
Beam m (ft)	7.6
Engine Type	2 x MTU 12V 2000 M72
Engine kW (HP)	1080
Year Const	2007

LOA m (ft)	30.1
Beam m (ft)	11.2
Engine Type	2 x Deutz TBD620V12
Engine kW (HP)	1499
Year Const	1987

LOA m (ft)	32.9
Beam m (ft)	8.4
Engine Type	2 x MTU12V 296 TE74L
Engine kW (HP)	1500
Year Const	1998

LOA m (ft)	24.25
Beam m (ft)	9.22
Engine Type	2 x MAN D2842LE410 EDC
Engine kW (HP)	809
Year Const	2009

LOA m (ft)	24
Beam m (ft)	7.5
Engine Type	Yanmar 6HMY-WET
Engine kW (HP)	484
Year Const	2014

LOA m (ft)	42.5
Beam m (ft)	12.2
Engine Type	2 x MTU 16V396 TE74
Engine kW (HP)	1960
Year Const	1996

LOA m (ft)	24.5
Beam m (ft)	8
Engine Type	2 x MAN D2842LE410
Engine kW (HP)	809
Year Const	2010

LOA m (ft)	29.2
Beam m (ft)	11.5
Engine Type	2 x Caterpillar C32 ACERT
Engine kW (HP)	968
Year Const	1982

LOA m (ft)	22.1
Beam m (ft)	7
Engine Type	John Deer
Engine kW (HP)	485
Year Const	2021

LOA m (ft)	26.3
Beam m (ft)	8.5
Engine Type	2 x Cat C32
Engine kW (HP)	1081
Year Const	2016

LOA m (ft)	19
Beam m (ft)	7.1
Engine kW (HP)	662
Year Const	2019

LOA m (ft)	35.3
Beam m (ft)	10.9
Engine Type	2 x MTU V12 2000 M72
Engine kW (HP)	1080
Year Const	2009

LOA m (ft)	22.24
Beam m (ft)	8
Engine Type	2 x Volvo IPS 1050
Engine kW (HP)	596
Year Const	2023

LOA m (ft)	33
Beam m (ft)	8.5
Engine Type	Cat C32
Engine kW (HP)	1080
Year Const	2023

LOA m (ft)	34.2
Beam m (ft)	8.5
Engine Type	2 x Yanmar
Engine kW (HP)	670
Year Const	2000

LOA m (ft)	25.96
Beam m (ft)	9
Engine Type	2 X MTU 8 V 2000 M72
Engine kW (HP)	719
Year Const	2023

LOA m (ft)	40.15
Beam m (ft)	9
Engine Type	2 x MTU 12V 2000 M72
Engine kW (HP)	1080
Year Const	2023

LOA m (ft)	47.5
Beam m (ft)	11.8
Engine Type	4 x MTU 16V 4000
Engine kW (HP)	2320
Year Const	2009

LOA m (ft)	56
Beam m (ft)	13
Engine Type	4 x MTU 4000 16V M70
Engine kW (HP)	2320
Year Const	2001

LOA m (ft)	30.5
Beam m (ft)	9
Engine Type	2 x MTU 16V40000M63L
Engine kW (HP)	2235
Year Const	2019

LOA m (ft)	39.2
Beam m (ft)	10.7
Engine Type	2 x MTU
Engine kW (HP)	2240
Year Const	2016

LOA m (ft)	39
Beam m (ft)	11
Engine Type	2 x Cummins QSK60
Engine kW (HP)	1864
Year Const	2015

LOA m (ft)	15.8
Beam m (ft)	6.1
Engine Type	2 x QSC 8.3 l
Engine kW (HP)	368
Year Const	1989

LOA m (ft)	35.6
Beam m (ft)	9.5
Engine Type	2 x MTU 16V2000M72
Engine kW (HP)	1440
Year Const	2024

LOA m (ft)	27
Beam m (ft)	8.5
Engine Type	2 x Detroit16V92TA DDEC
Engine kW (HP)	819
Year Const	1999

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15 Small Liveaboard Catamarans

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How To Pick a Small Catamaran

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

Performance

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

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

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

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

Interior Layout

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

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

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

Exterior Design

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

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

Smart Cat S280: The Smallest Liveaboard Catamaran

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Specifications

The dimensions of the Smart Cat S280 are:

Max Bridge Clearance	46.2 feet (14.08 meters)
Max Draft	2.82 feet (0.85 meters)
Beam	17.4 feet (5.3 meters)
Length Overall	27.9 feet (8.5 meters)
Weight	4.5 tons (4,500 kg)

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

Other Small Sailing Catamarans

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

At $50,000, it features:

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

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

Costing around $100,000, it contains:

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

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

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

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

Endeavor 36

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

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

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

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

It also has:

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

Seawind 1000

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

It costs over $150,000 and features:

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

PDQ 36 Capella

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

Some of its other features include:

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

Lagoon 37 TPI

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

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

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

It costs about $50,000, and features:

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

Prout 37 Snowgoose

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

They also contain:

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

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

Some of its features include:

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

Prout Event 34

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

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

It contains:

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

Endeavor 30

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

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

Maine Cat 30

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

The Maine Cat 30 contains:

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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VESSEL REVIEW | Sinichka – Electric commuter boats designed for Russia’s Moskva River

A series of three new electric monohull commuter ferries have already begun operational sailings on the Moskva River in the Russian capital Moscow.

Built by Russian shipyard Emperium, sister vessels Sinichka , Filka , and Presnya – all named after rivers in Moscow – are being operated by the Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development (Moscow Deptrans). They are the first units of a planned fleet of 20 vessels that will serve the capital city and other nearby communities. The new ferry system will be the water transport system to be operated on the Moskva River in 16 years.

Each vessel has a welded aluminium hull, an LOA of 21 metres, a beam of 6.2 metres, a draught of only 1.4 metres, a displacement of 40 tonnes, and capacity for 80 passengers plus two crewmembers. Seating is available for 42 passengers on each ferry, and the main cabins are also fitted with USB charging ports, wifi connectivity, tables, toilets, and space for bicycles and scooters. The cabin layout can be rearranged to allow the operator to adjust the distances between the seats and to install armrests of varying widths.

An open upper deck is also accessible to passengers and is the only area on each ferry where smoking is allowed.

The ferries are all of modular construction with each ferry’s wheelhouse, main cabin, and other structural elements being built as complete, separate components. This enables the ferries to be easily dismantled for transport to anywhere in Russia by rail and then quickly re-assembled within seven days.

The ferries are also ice-capable. Recently completed operational trials on the Moskva showed that the vessels can also easily navigate under mild winter conditions with broken surface ice, though year-round operations are planned for the entire fleet.

The ferries are each fitted with 500kWh lithium iron phosphate battery packs that supply power to two 134kW motors. This configuration can deliver a maximum speed of 11.8 knots, a cruising speed of just under 10 knots, and a range of 150 kilometres.

Emperium said the transfer of rotation of electric motors to the propeller is carried out by direct drive. As a propulsion installation, a pulling rotary propeller-steering column with double screws is used. The installation of double pulling screws, with similar power, allows an operator to increase the efficiency of the propulsion system to deliver a slightly higher speed or to reduce energy consumption. This arrangement also provides the ferries with enhanced manoeuvrability necessary for navigating in close quarters.

The batteries themselves have projected service lives of 10 to 12 years and are fitted with safety features such as built-in fire extinguishers and gas vents. Quick-disconnect features allow the batteries to be easily removed for replacement or maintenance.

Some of our readers have expressed disquiet at our publication of reviews and articles describing new vessels from Russia. We at Baird Maritime can understand and sympathise with those views. However, despite the behaviour of the country’s leaders, we believe that the maritime world needs to learn of the latest developments in vessel design and construction there.

Click here to read other news stories, features, opinion articles, and vessel reviews as part of this month’s Passenger Vessel Week.

Type of vessel:	Commuter ferries
Flag:	Russia
Operator:	Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development, Russia
Builder:	Emperium, Russia
Hull construction material:	Aluminium
Length overall:	21 metres
Beam:	6.2 metres
Draught:	1.4 metres
Propulsion:	2 x 134 kW
Maximum speed:	11.8 knots
Cruising speed:	10 knots
Range:	150 kilometres
Batteries:	Lithium iron phosphate, 500 kWh
Accommodation:	Cabin; toilets; bicycle/scooter area
Crew:	2
Passengers:	80
Operational area:	Moskva River, Russia

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Tags: Emperium Filka Moscow Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development Moskva River Presnya Russia Sinichka WBW newbuild

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Sleek Electric Ferry Flies Over Water, Picks Off Diesel Ferries

If all goes according to plan, commuters in Stockholm will climb aboard the world’s fastest electric ship, the Candela P-12 Shuttle, when it goes into service from the suburb of Ekerö to the city center next year. Candela is better known as a purveyor of sporty-looking electric boats for leisure use, so what’s behind the sudden interest in the commute by electric ferry?

The Electric Ferry Of The Future Is Coming

Candela has clearly put its leisure-boating know-how to work in the P-12 Shuttle. The new electric ferry is a potential game-changer for the urban waterborne commute, which in Stockholm is currently charged to a fleet of more than 70 diesel vessels.

Battery power is just part of the picture. The P-12 is a hydrofoil, meaning that it lifts completely out of the water when in motion, with an assist from three carbon fiber wings. That guarantees a smoother ride than conventional ferries. Candela also double-guarantees smooth sailing with its “Candela Flight Controller” computer-controlled hydrofoil regulating system.

The hydrofoil angle also enables the electric ferry to go much faster than an ordinary boat, without leaving a wake.

That’s important because the wake thing can make all the difference between a quick ferry commute and a slow one. Wakes are the waves created by a boat cutting through water. They don’t matter much in open waters, but in harbors and urban environments the action of wakes can create hazards for other watercraft, and it degrade infrastructure. For those reasons wakes are strictly regulated in urban areas, which places a tight ceiling on the speed allowed for an electric ferry, or any urban watercraft for that matter.

With the wake issue behind it, so to speak, the P-12 can hit 30 knots, or almost 35 miles per hour. That’s almost three times faster than the normal 12-knot limit in Stockholm waterways.

The Need For Speed, Electric Ferry Edition

So, what’s the big deal about speed? That depends on who needs to save time, and how much time is saved. Candela is banking on Stockholm to provide a testing ground for cutting the time of a suburban and urban mass transit system that currently leans on subways, buses, and an under-used ferry system.

According to Candela’s assessment, the electric ferry will shave 25 minutes from the current 55-minute one-way commute from Ekerö to the Stockholm city center. The same 55-minute ride apparently applies to the city’s buses, subways, diesel ferries, and cars during rush hour.

Candela has another convenience element at work for the Stockholm commute, as well. Currently the city has just two 200-person diesel ferries on the Stockholm-Ekerö route, which only provide two departures daily. The plan is to replace them with at least five P-12 shuttles,

“Instead of two departures per day, there would be a P-12 Shuttle departing every 11 minutes. This allows commuters to ignore timetables and just go to the dock and wait for the next boat,” says Erik Eklund, the head of sales and marketing at Candela.

The flexible scheduling could help improve interest in ferry commuting. According to Candela, overall the passenger fleet in Stockholm sails with just an average occupancy rate of 17%.

The growing cadre of work-from-home workers won’t care about the added convenience and the savings of time, but many others will.

Follow The Money

If the name Candela rings a few bells, CleanTechnica took note of the company last year, when series production began for its C-7 electric hydrofoil open-air sports boat.

“Getting the boat out of the water into the (relatively) low-drag air is a neat trick for internal combustion-powered speedboats, but it’s an absolute game-changer for electric watercraft like the new Candela C7,” enthused CleanTechnica’s Jo Borrás.

Apparently that was just the first step. The C-7 played a cameo as a chase craft in the Mubadala United States Sail Grand Prix SailGP last March, showing off its ability to keep up with the action as monster wind-powered catamarans raced around San Francisco Bay.

The company also let slip word about its electric ferry plans at the time, and it added a cabin cruiser version to its hydrofoil stockpile earlier this month.

Candela teased a new C-8 version of its leisure craft earlier this year, but it appears the company is also following the money trail to mass transit.

The P-12 will undergo a 9-month trial period in Stockholm, and if it performs according to expectations Candela is already looking beyond replacing Stockholm’s entire diesel fleet.

Candela points out that a new electric ferry system requires minimal infrastructure from cities and suburbs — little more than a dock and a gangway — in contrast to the time and expense of building new subway systems or highways. More widespread use of ferries could also ease congestion on crowded bus routes.

“The company sees a huge demand from over 600 cities, municipalities, vessel operators and urban developers that already have expressed interest in the P-12 Shuttle as a faster, cheaper, and green alternative to existing diesel ships or land transport,” Candela explains.

“The first P-12 Shuttle will be followed by many more, as serial production ramps up at the company’s Rotebro factory. Using production methods already streamlined for Candela’s leisure boat manufacturing, Candela aims to eventually spit out hundreds of P-12 Shuttles a year,” they add.

Get Ready For The Electric Ferry Revolution

For the record, Candela is not the only hydrofoil fan with plans to hit the waters of Stockholm. The company Green City Ferries is also in the running with its hydrofoil-assisted, low-wake Beluga24, which can run on either batteries or hydrogen fuel cells depending on the length of the route.

“Until now high wakes have been a showstopper for efficient waterborne commuting,” Green City Ferries explains, sounding a familiar note.

If you’re spotting a trend, drop us a note in the comment thread.

Meanwhile, speaking of hydrogen ferries, it’s time to catch up with Golden Gate Zero Emissions Marine, which seemed about ready to launch a fleet of hydrogen ferries into the San Francisco Bay a few years ago.

They’re still on the chase, now under the name Zero Emission Industries as designer and developer with SWITCH Maritime as owner. Their first vessel, dubbed Sea Change , will use both hydrogen fuel cells and batteries.

As of this writing, the Sea Change is undergoing final trials in Washington State. Plans are under way for a launch in San Francisco and SWITCH is already eyeballing America’s aging fleet of 1,000 or so diesel ferries for conversion to zero emission transportation.

Follow me on Twitter @TinaMCasey .

Image: Flying hydrofoil watercraft courtesy of Candela.

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Tina specializes in advanced energy technology, military sustainability, emerging materials, biofuels, ESG and related policy and political matters. Views expressed are her own. Follow her on LinkedIn, Threads, or Bluesky.

Tina Casey has 3351 posts and counting. See all posts by Tina Casey