Beam:  7.25'    Draft:  0.9'
    Beam:  8.5'    Draft:  5'
    Beam:  5.67'    Draft:  3.44'
    Beam:  7.'    Draft:  4.5'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  4'
    Beam:  6.67'    Draft:  4.3'
    Beam:  8.0'    Draft:  3.6'
    Beam:  12'    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  6.5'    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  7.5'    Draft:  2.5'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  3-6'
    Beam:  7'
    Beam:  6.67'    Draft:  2'
    Beam:  7'    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  8.5'    Draft:  2.3'
    Beam:  8.6'    Draft:  3.4'
    Beam:  4'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  4'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  4'
    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  7'    Draft:  3'9'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  1'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  7'    Draft:  3'3"'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  3.3'
    Beam:  7'
    Beam:  7.8'    Draft:  4'
    Beam:  11'    Draft:  3.5'
    Beam:  6'    Draft:  3'
    Draft:  3.5'
    Beam:  7'1'''    Draft:  2'11''
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  1-5'
    Beam:  7.3'    Draft:  2.5'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  3'3'
    Beam:  6' 9"'    Draft:  3'
    Beam:  7.7'    Draft:  2.0'
    Beam:  15'    Draft:  1'
    Beam:  7'9'    Draft:  2'8'
    Beam:  8'    Draft:  3.25'
    Beam:  7'    Draft:  1'

20 foot sailing catamaran

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ArrowCat brings back the 20' center console. The 20CC is a significant addition, and there's none on the market like it. Built strong, we intentionally designed this model to be simple and plain – simple to take the boat out, simple to use and to maintain, plain by allowing you the flexibility to customize it according to your preferences, either by yourself or through a dealer. Designed simple and plain yet it's extraordinary. The ArrowCat 20 is built using most of the same techniques and materials utilized in our larger vessels: quality gelcoat exterior, vinylester barrier coats, all-composite construction, and plenty of strength. The bow areas of the keel are reinforced with Kevlar fabric, while the transom and deck areas (mounting points) are constructed with Coosa panel. The floor and bulkheads are PVC foam cores wrapped in plenty of bi and tri-directional cloth. Foam flotation has been installed for positive buoyancy, and an EPA-certified fuel system is installed, accessible below deck.
Power Cat Center Console Planing Hull Design 100% Composite Materials NMEA 2000 Digital Monitoring 316 Stainless Hardware Dual Battery Switches 20" or 25" Transom Option Positive Floatation Foam

Specifications

LOA - 19'4" Beam - 8'4" Draft - 10" Fuel - 2x23 Gal Max Recommended HP - 180 Standard Transom Height - 25" Dry Weight (Appx) - 2,900 Lbs Capacity - 7 person or 1,800 Lbs

20 foot sailing catamaran

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20 foot sailing catamaran

ARROWCAT 20CC

20' center console drawling

Motor Packages

Dual 60 HP – Dual 90 HP  Mercury Four Stroke, Aluminum Props  · Dual 60 HP – Dual 90 HP  Suzuki Four Stroke, Aluminum Props  · Other Packages Available Based On Availability

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Seat – Leaning Post With Backrest Forward Console Seat with Backrest 4 Flush Mounted SS Rod Holders 2 Automatic Bilge Pumps Nav & Anchor Light 10 Gang Switch Panel Positive Foam Floatation Non- Skid Walking Surfaces Non- Skid Self Bailing Deck Transom Walkthrough With Door Large Bow Storage Locker Anchor Locker (Bow) Storage In Console Bow Eye 2 Stern Eyes 5 Stainless Steel Cleats 5 Year Hull Warranty

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Multihull of the year

2022 Sailing Special Buyer's Guide

Most builders loyal to twin hulls have deserted the under 30-foot niche, and that’s a real shame. So in this bracket, it’s trimarans that are now more popular. Most of the models on offer are equipped with a folding or telescopic float system. These units can fit into a standard marina slip and can even be transported by road. And these features make them ideal for coastal sailing and for discovering waters far from your home port. Or why not a bit of racing?

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Published 26/11/2021

By Emmanuel van Deth

Published: jan. / feb. 2022

Multihulls World #181

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Astus 20.5 - Such success, now a one-design class Test MW171

20 foot sailing catamaran

This model has seen remarkable success, with 60 units already built since its launch in 2018. Our test revealed that this VPLP designed multihull is as fun to sail as it is practical and easy to operate. The most active owners have been working together with Astus Boats to establish a one-design class. The 20.5 is particularly exciting in the Sport version, as it offers 260 sq ft (24 m²) upwind for a weight of less than half a ton. Enough to have fun and sensation, especially when the gennaker is out! Like the other models in the range, it adopts a telescopic link system for the arms. The interior layout is compact, but still offers a mini saloon and a double berth. The strong points of the 20.5 for coastal cruising: pivoting appendages and a large 172 sq ft (16 m²) sailing platform.

Builder: Astus Boats  Architect: VPLP  Length: 19’6” (5.95 m) Beam: 8’2”/14’9” (2.48/4.50 m) Light displacement: 1,036 or 1,080 lbs (470 or 490 kg) Draft: 10”/4’1” (0.25/1.25 m) Upwind sail area: 226 / 260 sq ft (21 / 24 m²) Downwind sail area: 366 / 452 sq ft (34 / 42 m²) Gennaker: 215 / 280 sq ft (20 / 26 m²) CE category: C5/D7 Motor: 2 to 6 HP outboard Price: € 23,166 ex-tax (Leisure version)

www.astusboats.com  

CORSAIR PULSE 600 - Radical and incredibly efficient Test MW148

20 foot sailing catamaran

As its name suggests, this sub-500-kilogram (1,000 lb) machine is designed for racing, and small fleets have appeared - notably in Australia. Though the Pulse 600 is the smallest of Corsair’s trimarans, it is still very attractive! Its three sharp and inverted bows give it a great look... a design as radical as it is efficient because on the water, you’re immediately won over by the potential of this machine. The cockpit is large enough to accommodate three people – and you can quickly hike out onto the floats to give the Pulse even more power. The removable coachroof houses a large watertight locker. No fitting-out or berths: it’s simply a shelter that can be used at anchor. The Pulse 600 is of course transportable and foldable.

Builder: Corsair Marine  Length: 19’52’’ (5.95 m) Beam: 8’/14’9” (2.45/4.50 m)  Displacement: 992 lbs (450 kg) Draft: 9”/4’ (0.22/1.20 m)  Mainsail: 205 sq ft (19.10 m²) Jib: 76 sq ft (7.10 m²)  Spinnaker: 345 sq ft (32 m²) Price: US$ 38,800 ex-tax

www.corsairmarine.com  

TRICAT 20 - Perfect for rallies and performance Test MW163

20 foot sailing catamaran

This is the smallest model in the range: first presented three years ago, this trimaran was designed primarily for day-sailing, it also excels on coastal trips, where its compact size, maneuverability and performance are outstanding. The Tricat 20, with over 50 units already built, naturally reflects the success of its predecessors, including the 25 Evolution’s intelligent folding system, with the advantage of offering a nice living space and irreproachable seaworthiness for its size. Inside, there is a double berth for the parents and two bunks for the ...

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Best Cruising Catamarans

  • By Cruising World Editors
  • Updated: July 1, 2021

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Cruising catamarans have been around for decades, but early models—often plywood and fiberglass vessels built by their owners from plans and kits, kept the boats on the fringes of mainstream sailing. That all changed, though, as big roomy cats were discovered by sailors who went off to charter in the Caribbean, where the multihulls proved their worth as comfortable liveaboard and party boats.

Today’s bluewater catamarans roam the globe, carrying families to exotic destinations across the Pacific and beyond. Just as with their monohull cousins, there is no best catamaran. Instead there is a wide variety of designs, ranging from small catamarans that offer the ease of maintenance a couple might enjoy to performance catamarans capable of easily knocking off 250-mile days. Today, the best catamaran brands offer a range of size models and layouts that can be optimized for an owner sailing with family and friends, or for the charter market, where there’s a demand for four, five and even six cabins worth of accommodations.

The most prolific catamaran manufacturers are in France and South Africa where yards include both large-run production builders and niche companies building fewer than 10 boats a year.

The best cruising catamarans offer good load-carrying ability and respectable performance. As with any sailboat , a modern catamaran’s design is a result of compromises. Daggerboards or keels? Galley up or galley down? Spacious owner’s cabin or extra bunks? There are lots of options to choose from—and that’s what makes looking at these sailboats fun!

Here, then is an eclectic A to Z list of some of the best catamarans that have helped shaped the evolution of how we live and sail on two hulls.

Antares 44i

Antares 44i catamaran

Now built in Argentina as a full-fledged, bluewater catamaran and cruiser that can be safely operated by a shorthanded couple or family crew, the Antares 44i features a fully covered cockpit with a quartet of big, standard solar panels recessed within the hardtop, one example of a yacht capable of long-range passagemaking.

Atlantic 42

Atlantic 42 Catamaran

Almost 30 years ago, yacht designer Chris White revolutionized catamaran design with the first in his series of Atlantic cats, the primary feature of which was the innovative mid-ship sailing cockpit forward of the main cabin. The smallest in the Atlantic line, the 42 remains White’s most popular design ever.

Bahia 46 catamaran

Fountaine-Pajot has built so many outstanding cruising catamarans that it’s difficult to narrow down any single boat, but we’ve always been fans of the good-looking, well-thought-out Bahia 46. At 46 feet, the boat is large enough for offshore forays and has plenty of volume; with its simple but powerful sail plan, it’s also an excellent performer.

Catana 471 catamarans

Beginning around 1996, the French builder Catana was one of the first companies to manufacture fully found cruising cats for private ownership, and this Christophe Barreau design, which enjoyed a nearly 10-year production run from 1997-2006, was emblematic of this first generation of safe, fun, long-legged offshore voyagers.

Click here to see more cats from Catana.

Catana 50 catamaran

When it comes to speed, light boats are fast ones. And if you wish to save weight, that means exotic modern materials like carbon. Catana now infuses the laminates of their entire production line with carbon fiber, and for this list, we’ve chosen the Catana 50 Carbon, one of the zippiest cats now crossing oceans.

Click here to read about a couple’s charter aboard a Catana 50.

Gemini 105M

Gemini 105M catamaran

Pioneering catamaran sailor, builder and designer Tony Smith launched the first of his 33-foot Gemini 105M’s (10.5 meters = 33′) in 1993, and soon after found a ready and willing stream of sailors enamored of the boat’s compact size, affordable price tag, and such innovations as the nifty lifting rudder and transom steps.

Click here to read about the Gemini Legacy 35.

Gunboat 62 catamaran

Built between 2000-2005, the Gunboat 62 firmly established the Gunboat brand: go-anywhere cats that applied race-boat technology to a world-cruising platform. Hull no. 1, Tribe, was built for company founder Peter Johnstone, who then spent a year-and-a-half cruising with his family, smiling all the way.

Kronos 45 catamaran

French builder Henri Wauquiez is best known for his long career building monohulls, but the Kronos 45 cat, which he launched in 1992, was ahead of her time. Classic lines, the aft “targa bar” over the cockpit, the louvered coach roof windows, even the distinctive stripes on her hull: the Kronos 45 remains timeless.

Lagoon 380 catamaran

No roundup of cruising cats would be complete without several Lagoon entries, and the best of that impressive bunch might well be the Lagoon 380. Originally launched in 1999, and revered for its combination of quality, volume and performance, with over 740 boats built the 380 is still going strong.

Lagoon 440 catamaran

Launched five years after the breakthrough 380, the Lagoon 440 was an evolutionary design that featured a raised flybridge helm station, a unique “gullwing” configuration below the bridge deck, expanded windows in the hull and much more. With 400 boats built in a 6-year production run, the 440 was an unqualified success.

Lagoon 620 catamaran

How big can a production cat, still operable by a short-handed crew, really be? The builders at Lagoon discovered that 62-feet hit a sweet spot in the marketplace, and have sold over 70 boats since its introduction in 2010. The centerpiece of this design is the sensational steering station atop the flybridge, with expansive views of the sea and sky.

Click here to see more cats from Lagoon.

Leopard 40 catamaran

With an unmatched pedigree – designed by premier multihull naval architects Gino Morelli and Pete Melvin, built by the prestigious Robertson & Caine boatyard in South Africa, and commissioned by chartering giant The Moorings – the Leopard 40 was, perhaps unsurprisingly, Cruising World ’s Import Boat of the Year in 2005.

Louisiane 37

Louisiane 37 catamaran

Based on the famous French racing cat Charente-Maritime, the Louisiane 37, designed by Joubert/Nivelt and launched by builder Fountaine-Pajot in 1983, was a light, fast liveaboard cruiser with full accommodations that represented a radical departure from the hefty British cats that preceded it.

Maine Cat 30

Maine Cat 30 catamaran

One of the more versatile and clever cats ever created, the central feature of the cool Maine Cat 30 is the open bridge deck/living room sandwiched between the hulls and canopied by a rigid, permanent hard top (the comfortable accommodations/ staterooms are stationed in the hulls). Ideal for a winter in the Bahamas but with the ability to sail offshore, it’s a boat for all seasons and reasons.

Manta 42 catamaran

Built in Florida and beloved by the owners of the over 120 boats built during the company’s existence from 1993 to 2009, the Manta Catamarans range included 38-, 40- and 44-foot cats. For this exercise, however, we’re heralding the original Manta 42, which won the Best Value Overall prize in CW’s 2001 Boat of the Year contest.

Moorings 4800/Leopard 48

Leopard 48 catamaran

Another Leopard/Moorings collaboration built by the wizards at Robertson & Caine (though this boat was designed by fellow South African Alex Simonis), the Leopard 48 was another CW Boat of the Year winner with all the contemporary bells and whistles: forward cockpit, flybridge helm station and solid hardtop dodger, just to name a few.

Click here to read more about the Leopard 48, and click here to see more images.

Nautitech 441

Nautitech 441 catmaran

The Best Multihull Under 45 Feet: So said the CW judging panel in the 2013 Boat of the Year competition, regarding the Nautitech 441. But what makes this versatile platform so intriguing are the different helm set-ups. The 441 employs a single wheel, to starboard, ideal for solo sailors, while the 442 has a pair of helm stations aft.

Click here to see more Nautitech Catamarans.

Outremer 5X

Catamaran

A state-of-the-art all-oceans cat that exemplifies how far multihull design has come, the 59-foot Outremer 5X was a winner on both sides of the Atlantic, taking top honors in the European Boat of the Year competition in 2013, and following up as the Best Full-Size Multihull in CW ’s contest a year later.

Click here to see more cats from Outremer.

St. Francis 50

St. Francis 50

The flagship of the proud St. Francis line – built in South Africa since 1990 to designs by local legends Lavranos Marine Design – the St. Francis 50 is another “luxury cat” that shares much in common with an earlier 48-foot sister-ship, but packs even more payload into its roomier lines.

Click here to read more about the St. Francis 50

Seawind 1000

Seawind 1000 catamaran

Founded by Aussie surfer and sailor Richard Ward in 1982, the 33-foot Seawind 1000 is easily the most popular cruising cat ever built in Australia (the company has since moved its manufacturing and management operations to Vietnam). Roomy and airy, these cats dot the coastline of eastern Oz.

Seawind 1160

1160 catamaran

If the Seawind 1000 was a minimalist approach to cruising cats, the 38-foot Seawind 1160 is the flip side of the coin, a full-fledged long-range voyager. Among the reasons it was named CW ’s Most Innovative boat for 2007 is the unique “tri-folding” door that stashes overhead to open up the saloon and cockpit into a spacious living area.

Click here to read more about the Seawind 1160.

Sunsail 384

Sunsail 384 catamaran

Every sailboat is a compromise, and in the case of the Sunsail 384 (also sold privately as the Leopard 38) that’s a good thing, because designers Morrelli & Melvin and builder Robertson and Caine got the balance just right with this relatively small catamaran. With four cabins, the 384 can carry the same size bareboat charter crowd as her larger siblings, but does so with a decided bounce in her step. Named CW’s Import Boat of the Year in 2010, you can gauge the success of the design by the grins on the crew as they barrel down Sir Francis Drake channel in the British Virgin Islands.

Victoria 67

Victoria 67 catamaran

The French design office of Berret Racoupeau drafted the lines of Fountaine-Pajot’s new flagship, introduced in 2013, a magnificent world-girdling voyaging catamaran. Like other giant cats launched in recent years, the boat features a sensational upper deck with all sail controls, helm and lounging stations.

Click here to see more images of the Victoria 67.

Wharram Tanaroa

Wharram catamaran

No list of influential multihulls would be complete without the work of James Wharram, and while Tangaroa wasn’t a production cat by any means, it showcases the British designer’s respect for ancient Polynesian craft. Wharram sailed this 23-foot-6-inch “double-hulled canoe” across the Atlantic in the 1950s, and sold countless plans for similar boats for decades afterwards.

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13 Best Catamarans for Cruising (Buyer’s Guide With Prices)

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If you’ve spent many a pleasant weekend chartering or helming a cruising catamaran on the open sea, perhaps, just like me, you’ve started thinking about buying your own cruising catamaran . However, purchasing a cruising catamaran is no small decision; it’s essential to research the range of models to decide which will be best for you. 

Some of the best catamarans for cruising are the Sunreef 60, the Leopard 45, the Saona 46, the Manta 42, and the Antares 44i. A good cruising catamaran offers plenty of space, extended range and is optimized for comfort and safety. A cruiser is slower and less exciting to sail than a performance cat.

If you would like to own a catamaran, but your budget doesn’t stretch to purchasing a new one, look for a used, older model. You should also think about whether you’d prefer a power or sailing catamaran. This article explores the best cruising catamarans on the market and gives you an insight into what model will work best for your circumstances.

Are you looking for a specific price range or size? Check out my other articles, such as Best catamarans under 200k or 20 top performance catamarans!

Sunreef 60 (Power/Sail)

The Sunreef 60 is the epitome of luxury. It offers both powerful sailing performance and, with 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length, has an abundance of amenities for passengers. 

The Sunreef 60 has been commended by several industry experts, including SailWorld and YachtingWorld . Some of the best features of the Sunreef 60 include : 

  • A large semi-open saloon that leads into the aft cockpit, the main deck, and the dining space 
  • An aft hydraulic platform that can be used for water sports and sunbathing 
  • A large flybridge that can house a pool, bar, and dining area 
  • An aft garage that can be used as extra storage space 
  • The ability to host up to 12 guests, with the owner’s cabin offering a spectacular front view 

The Sunreef 60’s sailing specifications are equally impressive. Some of the catamaran’s specs include: 

Power version:

  • An advanced navigation system that allows the Sunreef 60 to operate both with and without a crew 
  • A fuel capacity of 1585.03 gallons (6000 liters) 
  • A water capacity of 211.34 gallons (800 liters) 
  • A draft of 5.90 feet (1.80 meters)

Sail version:

  • A fuel capacity of 463 gallons (1750 liters) 
  • 2*110HP Engines

In 2020, Sunreef launched a variation of the Sunreef 60 – the 60 Sunreef Power Eco . This catamaran is equipped with a state-of-the-art solar power system and wind generators. Eco-responsible finishing materials have been used to construct several parts of the catamaran.  

Both the Sunreef 60 and the eco version are excellent sailing crafts built for luxurious, long-distance cruises. They are still in production, so you can order a new vessel from Sunreef 60 . Used Sunreef 60s can be found on TheYachtMarket.com . 

As the Sunreef 60 is such a high-end vessel, be prepared to pay a premium price for one – new or used. 

Sunreef 60 are priced between $1 488 000 and $2 914 000

Nautitech 47 Power or Nautitech 46 Sail

The Nautitech 47 Power is a sleek power catamaran, designed by Nautitech Catamarans and architected by Marc Lombard.

Catamaran enthusiasts applaud the Nautitech 47 for its short extended hardtop, modern navigation station, and excellent bridge deck clearance . This Nautitech 47 Power has similar attractive features, including: 

  • A large saloon with a 360-degree panorama 
  • Optimized hulls and an optimized hardtop 
  • A comfortable navigation station area that can seat two 
  • A spacious gallery with large benches for working on 
  • A generous flybridge and cockpit that provides plenty of room for lounging 
  • The flybridge can also be enclosed, protecting it from bad weather
  • A lifting platform that can be lowered into the water to create a ‘beach’ in the middle of the sea
  • Three cabins which can be converted into four depending on how many guests you are entertaining 

The Nautitech 47 Power was launched in 2018 and is based on the Nautitech 46 Sail. It employs modern cruising and technical features, including:

  • A draft of 3 feet 11 inches (1.20 meters) 
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 170 gallons (2 x 645 liters) 
  • A water tank capacity of 2 x 79 gallons (2 x 300 liters) 
  • Two Volva Penta engines with a power of 225 HP

Nautitech 46 Sail offers :

  • Two Volva Penta engines with a power of 40 HP
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 79 gallons (2 x 300 liters) 

The only potential drawback of the Nautitech 47 Power is that it has exposed helms. However, you can fix this with a bimini, which will incur an additional cost. 

If you’re interested in buying a Nautitech 47/46, visit NautitechCatamarans.com to find your nearest dealer. The dealer may offer you a sea trial where you can take the catamaran out to sea and judge its performance for yourself. You can also buy a Nautitech second-hand; browse YatchWorld.com to see some options. 

Leopard 45 (Sail)

The Leopard 45 is a luxury catamaran that is popular with both charter companies and private owners. Simonis-Voogd designed the external shell while Robertson and Caine did the internal interiors. As its name suggests, the Leopard 45 is 45 feet (13.72 meters) long. It has been recommended by Gregor Tarjan, author of ‘ The Complete Guide for Cruising Sailors ’ and the president of Aeroyacht Ltd. 

The Leopard 45 was launched in 2017 and carried forward some of the most popular features and design aspects of earlier Leopard models. For instance, the Leopard 45 has a flybridge lounge which includes space for a seating area, a sunbed, and a table. This feature won an award when it was included in the Leopard 50. Other positive attributes of the Leopard 45 include: 

  • An increased aft area with floating stairs lead up to the cockpit
  • The option to have three or four cabins depending on the number of guests you have 
  • An open plan saloon and galley, adding to the catamaran’s overall spaciousness 
  • A protected helm station 
  • Hardtop lounge in the most recent models 

Some of the technical specifications of the Leopard 45 include: 

  • A minimum draft of 4 feet 11 inches (1.5 meters) 
  • A bridge deck clearance of 2 feet 9 inches (0.83 meters) 
  • A freshwater capacity of 206 gallons (780 liters)
  • A fuel capacity of 185 gallons (780 liters) 
  • Two engines with 45 HP each 

A new Leopard 45 will be available for purchase directly from Leopard Catamarans in 2022. However, if you can’t wait or want one at a lower price point, consider buying a used one. A range of used Leopard 45s is available on YachtWorld.com . 

A Leopard 45 costs between $957 000 – $234 000

Lagoon 440 (Sail)

The Lagoon 440 is a catamaran recognized for its large interior volume, making it a popular catamaran for charter companies. However, the volume also makes it an excellent catamaran for families or owners looking to host large parties. Lagoon also made a power-cat version called the Lagoon 44.

At 44 feet (13.7 meters) long, the Lagoon 440 is relatively heavy. However, it has several functional advantages, including: 

  • Four cabins with four en-suite heads 
  • A bimini top 
  • A cockpit with speakers and a shower that is easily accessible by guests 
  • A large galley with potential for island top benches 
  • Lazy jacks and a canvas catchment system that allows for easier sail handling 
  • Additional storage space in the aft and cockpits 

Meanwhile, some of the technical specifications of the Lagoon 440 include: 

  • A maximum draft of 4.3 feet (1.30 meters) 
  • One engine capacity with a total power of 54 HP 
  • Freshwater tanks with a capacity of 237 gallons (897 liters) 
  • A fuel tank capacity of 172 gallons (651 liters)

While the Lagoon 440 has an excellent collection of features, it does have some drawbacks that users have noted. Some flybridge models of the Lagoon 440 have a high boom position that may make it difficult to access the sail bag. The saloon’s leading edge has a slight squaring, which may be challenging to get aesthetically used to. 

Despite these drawbacks, the Lagoon 440 is still a great option if you are on a strict budget. The Lagoon 440 had a six-year production run, where over 400 of the models were produced. As a result, several Lagoon 440s are always available in the second-hand market. Visit YatchtWorld.com to explore catamarans of this model that are currently for sale. 

A Lagoon 440 can be purchased at $290 000 – $525 000

Saona 47 (Sail)

Made by Fountaine Pajot, the Saona 47 is a luxury catamaran that is 45.7 feet (13.94 meters) long. Designed by Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design, it has received several industry and maritime awards, including SAIL magazine’s award for the best multihull cruising boat (40-50 feet). 

Launched in April 2017, the Saona 47 is relatively new on the market. As a result, it features a modern design and modern amenities. Some of the most enticing features of the Saona 47 include: 

  • Several spaces for passengers to lounge and relax, including a large sunbathing area, a lounge deck, and an open plan cockpit
  • A lift that can also be converted into a swimming platform
  • A large galley with an island bench 
  • Three cabins, with the master cabin having an en-suite bathroom. If you’re looking to charter it, there is a four-cabin version with space for a crew.
  • Good visibility from the helm and the opportunity to engage with other passengers 

The Saona 47 also offers an excellent sailing performance. It has a carefully planned weight-to-value ratio, which allows for both speed and stability. Some of the technical features of the Saona 47 are: 

  • A draft of 4.3 feet (1.3 meters) 
  • A sail area of 828.8 feet (77 meters)
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 124 gallons (2 x 470 litres) 

To buy the Saona 47 new, you can lodge an inquiry on FountainePajot.com . However, you can also visit YachtWorld.com to see if you can find a used Saona 47.

A used Saona 47 may cost between $600,000 – $999,000.

Excess 12 (Sail)

The Excess 12 was launched in 2019 by Groupe Beneteau, the same group which designs Lagoon catamarans. The Excess range has been created for performance-oriented sailing vessels. The catamarans in the range have been applauded for their sailing prowess and their space. The Excess 12 was the first of the range and has been named the best cruising multihull under 40 feet by Sail Magazine. 

Designed by VPLP Design, the Excess 12 is considered a ‘sporty’ catamaran. It is 38 feet and 6 inches (11.74 meters). It has an open bimini and a light helm that gives it a feel similar to a monohull. Other attractive features of the Excess 12 include: 

  • A cockpit with a retractable roof that allows for direct access to sunlight 
  • The cockpit also has dining space for up to 8 people 
  • Room for two to three people in the helm
  • The option between three or four cabins 
  • A high aspect rig ratio 
  • An aft double steering station 
  • Most areas of the Excess 12 are constructed with cedar and white blend woodwork and united windows, making for a beautiful, natural aesthetic

Reviewers of the Excess 12 note a minor drawback of the twin aft helm. Its location in the corner of the cabin can create a blind spot. Other than this, many of the sailing features of the Excess 12 are positively received. These include: 

  • A draft of 4 feet and 5 inches (1.35 meters) 
  • An upwind sail area of 82 meters (269 feet)
  • A fuel capacity of 2 x 53 gallons (2 x 200 liters) 
  • The freshwater capacity of 79 gallons (300 liters) 

If you’re interested in buying the Excess 12 new, visit the dealer’s page on ExcessCatamrans.com, or visit YatchtWorld.com to look for a secondhand model.

Manta 42 (Sail)

The Manta 42 is one of the most popular models from Manta, an older brand known for its high-quality catamarans. 

The Manta 42 was launched in the late 1990s and was in production until the late 2000s. It received the ‘Best Value Overall’ prize in CW’s 2001 Boat of the Year. Even though it is an older model, it remains a beloved model today and is an excellent option if you are on a tighter budget. 

Designed by Eric Lerouge, a French naval architect, the Manta 42 has a variety of attractive features: 

  • Great sail to area displacement ratio, which makes for smoother sailing
  • A spacious aft cockpit area that can be upgraded and customized to suit your own particular design needs 
  • High bows and curved forward crossbeam make for a streamlined appearance
  • Room for three cabins and two heads. The owner’s cabin has its own en-suite bathroom with a large shower. 
  • Glass-enclosed cockpit
  • The interior finish is made with maple and teak wood 

Meanwhile, some of the technical and sailing features of the Manta 42 are as follows: 

  • A draft of 3.8 feet (1.2 meters) 
  • One engine with a total power of 60 HP 
  • Two holding tanks with a fuel capacity of 120 gallons (454 liters)
  • The freshwater capacity of 100 gallons (379 liters)

If you decide to take the plunge and buy a Manta 42, you will become a member of the Manta Owners Association . This association connects you to other manta owners who offer advice and conversations about Manta maintenance and sailing. 

You cannot buy the Manta 42 new. However, there are plenty of used Manta 42 models available on YachtWorld.com . 

A used Manta 42 will cost you somewhere between $239 000 – $325 000

Antares 44i (Sail)

The Antares 44i is another older model that offers excellent value for money if you’re working with a lower budget. Its production began in Argentina in the late 2000s. This yacht was built with round-the-world sailing in mind, and it has excellent amenities from both a technical and passenger perspective. 

Some of the best passenger facilities the Antares 44i offers are: 

  • An extended galley with plenty of storage space 
  • Three cabins, with two at the hulls and one forward cabin on the port side 
  • Stainless steel arch aft with plenty of space for dinghies 
  • A cockpit with room for a BBQ and room for lounging 

While it is an older model, the Antares 44i still has plenty of modern sailing features and storage room, making it a great long-distance cruiser. Here are some of the attractive technical features: 

  • A maximum draft of 4 feet (1.2 meters) 
  • A bridge clearance of 62 feet (18.9 meters) 
  • Two engines with a total power of 80 HP 
  • Fuel tanks with a capacity of 120 gallons (454 liters) 
  • Freshwater tanks with a capacity of 150 gallons (568 liters)

Today, the Antares Catamarans company has built a newer version of the Antares 44i – the Antares 44 , which you can consider if you want to buy a new catamaran. However, the Antares 44i continues to be a great option. You can buy a used Antares 44i on YatchtWorld.com . 

Price: $495 000 – $860 000

Catana 50 (Sail)

The Catana 50 is another older model that can hold its own against many more modern cruising catamarans. Like the Antares 44i, it is a more pocket-friendly option that doesn’t compromise sailing quality and passenger amenities. 

Catana is one of the world’s best catamaran producers, known for creating stable yet fast boats and for their quality finishes. Besides being produced by Catana, the Catana 50 has been architected by Christophe Barreau, a world class naval architect. Some of the best features that the Catana 50 boasts are: 

  • A length of 50 feet (15 meters)
  • Deep daggerboards allow for excellent windward performance
  • Made with carbon fiber which allows for stability and speed 
  • Hardtop over cockpit 
  • Twin aft helm stations 
  • Three cabins which can sleep 6 
  • Satin oak interior finishes 

Meanwhile, the technical specifications of the Catana 50 include: 

  • A draft of 4 feet (1.2 meters) 
  • A bridge clearance of 23.7 feet (7 meters) 
  • Two engines with a total power of 150 HP 
  • Fuel tanks with a capacity of 227 gallons (860 liters) 
  • Freshwater tanks with a capacity of 211 gallons (800 liters)

Catana does not produce the Catana 50 anymore. However, you can look for a pre-owned Catana 50 on the CatanaServices website or YatchtWorld.com . There are models of the Catana 50 available for secondhand sale across the world.

A Catana 50 will set you back somewhere between $644 000 – $692 000

Atlantic 42 (Sail)

Like the Manta 42, the Atlantic 42 is a smaller-sized catamaran. It is 42 feet (12.8 meters) long but is spacious and fuel-efficient. It was designed by Chris White , who specializes in designing high-performance catamarans.

The Atlantic 42 was in production in 1999 but boasts many classic features found in modern-day catamarans. The Atlantic 42 has been the recipient of Cruising World magazine’s Boat of the Year award. Noteworthy features in the Atlantic 42 include: 

  • A high waist and forward cockpit 
  • Custom aft deck allowing for easy access to the dinghy storage
  • Interior design constructed with teak and holly wood
  • Navigation station with space for two seats
  • A secure, raised pilothouse that allows for excellent visibility in stormy weather 
  • A galley with enough space for long-distance cruises 
  • Two double cabins and two single cabins 

In addition to good passenger amenities, the Atlantic 42 has some excellent sailing specifications, including: 

  • Water capacity of 80 gallons (302.8 liters) 
  • Fuel capacity of 80 gallons (302.8 liters) 
  • A bridge deck clearance of 62 feet (18.9 meters) 
  • Engines with a total power of 58 HO 

The Atlantic 42 is no longer in production but can be custom ordered from Chris White designs . However, they can also be found on resale platforms such as YacthtWorld.com .

Price: $325 000 – $450 000

Seawind 1160 (Sail)

The Seawind 1160 is a long-distance cruiser produced by Seawind Catamarans , a leading catamaran manufacturer designing and building catamarans for over 35 years. 

This catamaran is available in two styles : the lite Seawind 1160 and the deluxe Seawind 1160. The deluxe catamaran operates with diesel sail drives that allow for excellent torque and fuel capacity. Meanwhile, the lite version works with outboard motors that reduce the catamaran’s overall weight. It also has more storage internally on the boat, and lower maintenance and replacement costs.

The Seawind 1160 has won Cruising World’s ‘Most Innovative Boat’ award in 2007. It won this award thanks to its tri-folding door, which opens the saloon and the cockpit to form a living or lounging area. Other significant design aspects and passenger amenities include: 

  • Twin helm stations 
  • 360-degree visibility from the cockpit 
  • Grey wash and timber interior to make for a highly modern interior 
  • Three cabins in the owner’s version of the catamaran with a queen-sized bed in the master cabin
  • Hulls made of fiberglass 

Meanwhile, the sailing and design specifications of the Seawind 1160 are as follows: 

  • A diesel fuel capacity of 95 US gallons (360 liters) 
  • A freshwater capacity of 185 US gallons (700 liters) 
  • A draft of 3 feet and six inches (1.1 meters) 

To buy a Seawind 1160 new, you can lodge an inquiry with SeaWindCats.com . However, you can also look for secondhand Seawind 1160s on websites like MultihullCentral.com .  

Price: $230 000 – $460 000

Bahia 46 (Sail)

Produced by Fountaine Pajot, the Bahia 46 has a sophisticated design that makes it an excellent choice. The Bahia 46 was also designed in conjunction with Joubert-Nivelt and Oliver Flahault.

Some of the stand out features of the Bahia 46 include: 

  • Larger than usual hulls
  • Daggerboards are strategically placed to minimize draft 
  • A six post-bimini that can hold dinghies 
  • Isolated engines that prevent passengers from being disturbed by the house and smell of the engines 
  • Generous cabin area with an enclosed space that provides protection from severe weather
  • A large cockpit with a dining space that can seat 10 

As well as offering excellent passenger and design amenities, the Bahia 46 has some attractive sailing features and specifications. These include: 

  • A draft of 4 feet 3 inches (1.30 meters) 
  • A fuel capacity of 100 gallons (378 liters) 
  • A freshwater capacity of 220 gallons (833 liters) 
  • Two engines with a total power of 80 HP

The Bahia 46 is no longer being produced. However, you can look to buy it secondhand on portals like YatchtWorld.com or SailTahiti.com . 

Price: $170 000 – $328 000

Aquila 48 (Power)

The Aquila 48 is a state-of-the-art power catamaran. While production of the Aquila 48 was discontinued in 2020, it is still an incredibly popular catamaran in the resale market.

The ambient and design features of the Aquila 48 include: 

  • A hardtop flybridge made with stainless steel and with air conditioning 
  • A forward cockpit with a removable table 
  • The choice between a four or three-cabin version 
  • A helm station with a canvas cover that offers weather protection 
  • An expansive galley with room for a range of facilities, including a microwave, a fridge, and a double sink 
  • Interiors finished with olive wood

The Aquila 48 is a power catamaran that allows for easy, stable, and fast cruising. Other specifications include:

  • A maximum draft of 3 feet (0.91 meters) 
  • Two engines with a maximum of 330 HP 
  • A freshwater capacity of 103 gallons (389.9 liters) 
  • Fuel tank capacity of 178 gallons (673.8 liters) 

You can buy the Aquila 48 second hand on websites like SiYachts.com or YatchtWorld.com .

Price: $550 000 – $699 000

Conclusion 

Depending on your budget and sailing style, there is a range of cruising catamarans you can choose from. Some of the best power catamarans include the Aquila 48, Sunreef Power, and Nautitech 47 Power. Meanwhile, some of the best luxury catamarans are the Saona 47 and Leopard 45. If you’re after an older catamaran that you can buy secondhand, the Manta 42, Antares 44i, and Lagoon 440 are excellent options . 

The next step in your catamaran journey is to see some of the models in their real-life glory. Contact some of the owners or dealers of these catamarans to see the catamarans up close and take them out for a trial! 

  • AntaresCatamarans: Antares Brand 
  • Catana Services: Pre Owned Boats 
  • CruisersForum: Nautitech 47 
  • Chris White: Atlantic 42 Catamaran 
  • CrusingWorld: 40 Best Cruising Catamarans 
  • Excess Catamarans: Excess 12
  • FlagstaffMarine: International Awards and Nominations for 2020 
  • Flagstaff Marine: Excess 12 
  • Fountaine Pajot: Saona 47
  • Leopard Catamarans: Model Availability
  • MantaOwners: Manta Owners Association 
  • Multihull Solutions: Award Winning Catamarans 
  • Multihull Central: Seawind 1160
  • Nautitech Catamarans: Nautitech 47 
  • Robertson and Caine: Leopard 45
  • SailTahiti: Catana 50 
  • Sail Magazine: 10 Great Cruising Cat
  • Sail Magazine: Boat Review – Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 
  • SailWorld: 60 Sunreef Power
  • Seawind Catamarans: History
  • Staten Island Yacht Sales: Aquila 48 
  • Sunreef Yachts: Eco Sunreef 60 Power
  • Sunreef Yachts: Sunreef 60 
  • YachtingWorld: The Sunreef 60 
  • YachtWorld: Antares Boats for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Atlantic 42
  • YachtWorld: Catana 50 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Nautitech 47 Boats for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Leopard 45 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Lagoon 440 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Saona 47 for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Excess 12
  • YachtWorld: Fountaine Pajot for Sale 
  • YachtWorld: Aquila 48
  • YachtWorld: Manta 42 Boats for Sale 

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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Skoota 20 trailable with small cuddy

This was our first powercat design and was originally designed to be our "water taxi" or island commuter so that we didn't need to use the increasingly expense ferries when living on the small island of Saturna in British Columbia. The photo above shows a magnificent home built example when cruising in NE USA. The owner reported "We had some fun in the boat this summer. We took a 66mi shakedown cruise down Buzzards Bay to Newport R.I."

Comprehensive building plans cost GBP350. 

Please click on the button below if you wish to buy full building plans. Note: You can pay using Paypal or with your normal credit card.

Plans will be sent as a zip file once payment has been received. This is no longer an automated system, so please allow 48 hours for your order to be processed and your plans emailed to you. 

It uses a central 25-30hp outboard and features a small central cabin (with double berth and galley) so can also be used as a basic cruising boat. The photo below shows four adult visitors in the cabin during a week long trip we took through the islands in British Columbia

With a 25hp Yamaha and one person on board it will do 15 knots, or 14 knots with three on board. The Skoota hull is a semi-displacement hull, so unsuitable for higher speeds. I actually designed it to run at 12 knots, so 15 was a very pleasant surprise.

https://www.youtube.com/v/tD92-T2koBE 

The overall beam of Skoota is 12.5ft, but it folds, like my similar length sailing catamaran Wizard, to 8ft on the trailer. Which is one reason for using a central engine as two would make the steering and throttles harder to organise. Note, the Skoota design actually has transom steps even though the prototype has decked over transoms.

The photo below shows the trailer to water principle.

As the trailer backs into the water the buoyancy of the hulls opens it out automatically. On retrieval gravity folds it up. Two bolts hold it all together when afloat, plenty strong enough, see below. So no lifting or winching needed - nature does the work in seconds. Note this photo and the video below shows the boat on our ancient flat-bed trailer - a real lash up and the first time the Skoota was folded. So only the swinging brackets are "real" the rest is temporary.

https://www.youtube.com/v/Y-_Z3O9IcHs 

The photo below shows the hulls in their "natural" position, slightly angled out because of their centre of gravity. They are lashed in for trailering, The slight angle ensures they open out properly when launching

I am a sailor, not a motor boat man. So I have been using a very experienced outboard motor/small craft expert as a consultant, although after the first few minutes he tends to lose me during our discussions. But then, why use a consultant if you know as much as they do?

His advice seems to work though, for after seeing the videos he wrote: "Your latest videos show proper trim , no wake between the hulls, no rooster tail. Very impressive actually. I think you are getting her dialled in now. 15 knots on 20 foot hulls ! That is unbelievable. And there is no visible bow wave! I think it's in there somewhere, right under your cg. You can't possibly be displacement at that speed. Bravo! I am very impressed."

And then later, after I emailed him my final outboard nacelle drawings he wrote: "That looks very good. You are adding about 15 degrees of driveshaft angle and 5 inches of depth simultaneously. So when the going is tough you can tuck your bows in and slog it out, and when the conditions allow you can let her run her bows higher. Users can experiment with trim pin positions to fine tune the system. The result is a completely tune-able boat. A 'completely tune-able, semi planing, single engined power catamaran' Brilliant."

https://www.youtube.com/v/G2hNQ33yZyo

And my consultant is not alone in his praise. These two recent emails about Skoota are typical: "I just finished watching the Skoota 20 launch videos. As I watched the video, I kept on saying to myself over and over again was "THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I'VE BEEN LOOKING FOR!!!" .

and "I have watched the video footage....and I've only got two words to say... VERY IMPRESSIVE Those lovely slender hulls look very efficient. My ultimate goal is to travel in that elusive 12-16 knot range regardless of chop. Skoota looks to be just what the doctor ordered. "

Some might be concerned that the Skoota could fold up when under way. The photo above was taken as we were moving the Skoota to its winter storage behind our house. You can see how stiff the boat is, one hull is only supported at the transom, the beams hold the rest of the hull up in the air. There is at least a 4in (100mm) gap between chock and keel. (The other hull has supports at bow and stern of course). I think you'll agree this is a pretty extreme test compared to what a boat endures when at sea.

An open deck version with windscreen replacing the cuddy is now available.

What Size Catamaran To Sail Around The World

What Size Catamaran To Sail Around The World | Life of Sailing

Catamarans are generally longer than monohulls, but their accommodations and handling vary widely between sizes.

The best size catamaran to sail around the world is 45 to 50 feet. The smallest catamaran with space for long-term provisions and a cabin is around 30 feet in length, and a 55 to 60-foot catamaran is the largest that can be accommodated at most marinas.

In this article, we'll go over the different sizes of catamarans and how they handle in the open ocean. Additionally, we'll cover each size category and the best sizes for traveling the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

We sourced the information used in this article from marine design guides and the consensus of experienced catamaran sailors.

Table of contents

‍ What Sizes Are Catamarans?

Catamarans come in all shapes and sizes, but the smallest models don't have the accommodations required to sail around the world. Most catamarans under 30 feet in length don't have a cabin at all, which is a stark difference that they have with monohulls.

Small monohull sailboats often have cabins, as there's plenty of room below on a wide single-hulled sailboat. Monohulls can be as small as 16 to 18 feet and still have a cabin, but catamarans must be much larger to have suitable accommodations.

The smallest catamarans are about 12 to 15 feet long. These are small recreational craft used primarily for racing, and they aren't designed for the open ocean. Larger catamarans in the 20-foot range can (and have) been used on the ocean, but they're usually classified as day boats.

Catamarans become practical for longer excursions once they hit about 30 feet in length. A boat of this size is large enough for a cabin and can usually accommodate between two and four people comfortably. Catamarans commonly stretch beyond 50 feet, which is where they're the most useful and comfortable.

Smallest Catamaran to Sail Around the World

So, what's the smallest catamaran you could use to sail around the world? In theory, any catamaran can sail long distances—but you need one that's large enough for shelter and storing provisions. Generally speaking, 30 feet is the bottom limit for an ocean-crossing catamaran.

Let's take the ME Cat 30 (Maine Cat) as an example. This small and nimble 30-foot catamaran makes use of its limited space and provides comfortable accommodations for a few adults. The ME Cat 30 is a split design that houses the basic accommodations in either hull, with an open seating area between them.

Inside the ME Cat 30, there's barely enough room for all the living spaces. It features a head and a large bed in one hull and a galley and a smaller berth in the other. With that, all the useful cabin space is filled—and this is considered a very good design for the size. As you can see, the best catamarans for sailing across the world are usually much larger.

Typical Ocean Crossing Catamaran Size

Based on what we discussed above, a 30-foot cruising catamaran is really pushing the limits on size. However, it doesn't take a whole lot more length to make a catamaran exponentially more comfortable and suitable for long journeys.

The typical ocean-crossing catamaran is usually about 40 to 45 feet long. With the addition of 10 feet in length, designers can fit an enormous amount of additional accommodations in the hulls.

This is because adding a little extra length allows designers and boatbuilders to widen each hull significantly, which makes room for luxuries like private bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, and entirely separate dining and cooking spaces.

Cruising Catamaran Floor Plans

A 40-foot to 50-foot catamaran usually comes with a mirrored floor plan. The traditional catamaran has an identical layout in each hull. That means if one hull has a private berth in the bow and a shower and a toilet in the stern, the other hull will have the exact same layout except opposite.

This is usually because spaces like the galley and sitting area are kept in the center console, where there's much more space to move around. Spaces that are used at night or only occasionally are kept in the narrow hulls, as this has proven to be a more comfortable layout for crews.

Storage is usually kept deep in the hulls as well, as there's extra space to work with when the only other design purpose is for sleeping in bathing. Catamarans in this size range can also have separate hull layouts, but the mirrored design is by far the most common.

Best Catamaran Size for Pacific Ocean Cruising

Catamarans are very versatile craft, but some function better in the Pacific Ocean than others. One of the main considerations when choosing a catamaran for Pacific Travel is that the Pacific usually has greater distances between ports and stopping points.

This is especially true on the US West Coast, where there are only a handful of ports and safe anchorages. The best Pacific cruising catamaran size is between 45 and 50 feet in length, as you're likely to need more space to store provisions for extended cruising.

If you're starting in San Francisco or Seattle, even a 'short' trip along the coastline could mean you'll pass hundreds of miles of steep rocky cliffs and no stopping points insight. When crossing the Pacific, you may travel thousands of miles before you encounter a port or island with any infrastructure at all, let alone stocks of provisions and a full-service marina.

The Pacific is a huge ocean, and the last thing you want to do is run out of food or fuel a thousand miles from your destination. Larger boats store more supplies, and they also give you more breathing room when you're surrounded by empty blue water for months on end.

Best Catamaran Size for Atlantic Ocean Cruising

The Atlantic Ocean is smaller than the Pacific Ocean, and the coastlines of many countries that border it tend to be well-developed. This makes it easier to get away with owning a smaller boat, as you don't need to store as many supplies, and your voyages will be shorter.

Another factor to consider is that not all marinas on the Atlantic can accommodate extremely large catamarans, or it may be prohibitively expensive to dock a 55-foot or 60-foot double-wide vessel. That's why the ideal size for an Atlantic-crossing catamaran is between 40 feet and 50 feet. Today, 45 feet seems to be average.

The boat of this size will fit in at most marinas in developed countries around the Atlantic, and its draft is shallow enough for island hopping and exploring the coral reefs that the Atlantic Islands are known for. Additionally, 40 to 50-foot catamarans are usually just as seaworthy as the larger boats, and they're less expensive to maintain.

Unlike the US West Coast, where ports are few and far between, the Atlantic in the Gulf of Mexico is littered with marinas and safe anchorages. You can travel for weeks along the coastline of the United States and parts of South America and never be further than a hundred miles from a full-service marina.

There are also hundreds of islands, tourist destinations, and service locations that reduce your need for large stores of provisions aboard your catamaran. This gives you a lot more flexibility in choosing a size and a floor plan, as your needs are different than that of a Pacific sailor.

Best Catamaran Size for World Cruising

If you're planning to go on a world tour or a circumnavigation, you're going to need a catamaran that's large enough to fit your crew and your provisions comfortably.

You'll also need a boat that is small enough to be serviced and accommodated in most locations but also seaworthy enough to whether anything you're likely to encounter out of the water.

For most people, the sweet spot seems to be around 45 to 50 feet in length. A 50-foot catamaran is more than large enough to store enough provisions for many months of sailing. It's also roomy enough to house two to six people comfortably for many weeks at a time.

Catamarans between 40 and 50 feet in length are also extremely seaworthy and have been known to make circumnavigation frequently. You're almost guaranteed to find a 50-foot catamaran in almost any remote anchorage in the world where sailors are known to frequent.

Also, almost any marina can accommodate a 50-foot catamaran, and most boatyards can perform at least basic repairs on a boat of this size. Most marinas have fee schedules for boats based on size, and the cutoff for large boats is usually 60 feet. This keeps you in the 'medium' boat category, which can save you thousands.

How to Choose a Catamaran Size

Choosing the right size catamaran can be challenging, but there are a few things you can do to narrow it down. First, examine how you plan to use the vessel. You can travel the oceans in a catamaran between 30 and 40 feet long, so if you have a small crew, you may want to consider a compact model.

Larger catamarans can sleep eight or more people comfortably. This is large enough for most people, though some charter captains may need additional room. A 40 to 45-foot catamaran is usually large enough for a small family, though a 50-footer would be more comfortable, especially if there are kids running around.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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    The strong points of the 20.5 for coastal cruising: pivoting appendages and a large 172 sq ft (16 m²) sailing platform. ... Catamaran ORC 42 n°20 Location : Saint Raphael, France Year : 2021 675 000, 00 € A Vendre Lagoon 42 Location : le Marin, Martinique 465 000, 00 Inc. tax€

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    Gemini 105M Courtesy of Gemini Catamarans. Pioneering catamaran sailor, builder and designer Tony Smith launched the first of his 33-foot Gemini 105M's (10.5 meters = 33′) in 1993, and soon after found a ready and willing stream of sailors enamored of the boat's compact size, affordable price tag, and such innovations as the nifty lifting rudder and transom steps.

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    Step aboard the new Leopard 42 and experience a new era of sailing. Joining the Leopard 45 and Leopard 50, the Leopard 42 leaves no detail overlooked in size or possibility. Sailing performance and livability exist harmoniously under one sleek profile. The Leopard 42's signature coachroof lounge provides ample space not found in other vessels.

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    Harbor 20. For the ultimate kick in the pants, you can't get much better in a compact package than the prolific Harbor 20. Designed by Tom Schock in 1997, this versatile boat is evergreen and a true daysailer. Responsive and steady, it's the best sailing teacher you'll ever have and even if you sail one poorly, you'll still get where ...

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    Are you looking for a specific price range or size? Check out my other articles, such as Best catamarans under 200k or 20 top performance catamarans! Sunreef 60 (Power/Sail) The Sunreef 60 is the epitome of luxury. It offers both powerful sailing performance and, with 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length, has an abundance of amenities for passengers.

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