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2022 Boat of the Year: Best Performance Catamaran

  • By Cruising World Editors
  • December 15, 2021

During and in the four days immediately following the US Sailboat show in Annapolis, Maryland, the  Cruising World  judges inspected and sailed on 27 boats vying for recognition. Learn more about the boats in our  2022 Boat of the Year  »

OK, confession time. When the roster of nominees for the 2022 Boat of the Year awards was released, the contest’s team and judging panel couldn’t help themselves, and quietly put three check marks, little symbols of anticipation, alongside a trio of boats: the untamed cats that would vie for the title of best performer in their class. After all, both Balance and Seawind had entered the winner’s circle in previous BOTY competitions, and it was clear they’d have a serious contender for the throne in yet another player from cat-crazy South Africa, the Kinetic KC54. How’d it go? Let’s just say, nobody was disappointed. The conditions on Chesapeake Bay were ideal for putting the three nominees through their paces, and the trio of scalded cats all acquitted themselves superbly. 

For 2022, if anything, the trend for flybridge catamarans is on a major upswing. New cats for 2022 from both Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot continued down that design path, putting an emphasis on living accommodations, not performance. But not aboard the latest Seawind 1600 , a brand originally built in Australia that is now produced in Vietnam. And that suits judge Tim Murphy just fine. “This boat was very dialed in,” he said, “and one place Seawind has always been innovative is with their helms. This one was really great; it was -outboard and aft with great visibility, sort of half-protected where you could step in and out. There was also good access to the boom and mainsail, which you don’t always see on cats. The deck layout was excellent, particularly the forward trampolines. Some cats have lacings with large openings where you can twist an ankle, but these were nice and tight.”

Seawind 1600

“Compared to other Seawinds that I’ve seen, I was just blown away with it in terms of what it could do and how it performed,” said Ed Sherman.  “It’s a fairly conservative boat in terms of technology compared to some of the other boats in the same category, which depending on a potential buyer’s state of mind, could be either a good thing or a bad one. I loved the centralized winch aft which is where all the sail-handling takes place. It’s pretty brilliant for a short-handed crew, and it’s all in a very safe and easy-to-access location that a cruising couple can deal with without scaring the heck out of themselves.”

The Kinetic KC54 is a fresh entry in the cat universe, and we’ll let Tim Murphy get right to the point: “This is a fairly new company that was started within the past couple of years. My breath was absolutely taken away by this boat; it was spectacular. I think it was the best-built boat in the entire fleet. It’s an all-carbon boat, with a foam core, epoxy resin, all infused–fantastic. The whole boat felt integrated. You didn’t feel like there was a conflict between the forces in terms of accommodation versus performance.” With a price tag approaching $3 million, it perhaps should not be astonishing. That was a major factor in evaluating the boat, and while it did not win its class, the experts panel did present it with a Judges’ Special Recognition prize to honor the boat’s overall excellence.

Kinetic KC 54

“It was my personal favorite in this year’s contest,” said Sherman. The materials that were used are absolutely the highest quality available in our industry at this point, and it’s a very high-tech boat in terms of systems.” Gerry Douglas was also duly impressed: “This was the Tesla of sailboats. I think that that was their model. In terms of design and execution and technology, it hit all three of those marks. This boat is built without compromise, and what it cost was not an issue, they just wanted to do the best they could in every aspect of the boat. The construction was impeccable, the fit and finish was amazing. There are some very clever design things in the boat, but it all really worked seamlessly.”  

With that level of competition, the Balance 482 had a tall order to overcome to win its class. And it did. “The sailing performance was excellent,” said Douglas. “The boat felt really good. The steering was terrific. The structure of the boat throughout was exemplary. Storage is really good. Visibility was good. Ventilation was great. There was even a rain collection system on the cabin top, which is the only one of the boats we looked at had that. It was very well concealed because the gutters formed a handhold going forward. The solar panel installation was also well done. The panels were encapsulated into a fiberglass tray that elevated the deck so the panels wouldn’t overheat. Very clever.”

Balance 482

The driving force behind Balance cats is Phil Berman, a world champ at racing beach cats who brought that passion to developing and marketing fully found cruisers. Judge Murphy knows him well: “Phil comes from a very strong view of wanting to see boats that have solid sailing performance. He’s also a strong proponent of daggerboard boats, which tends to be quick shorthand for the dividing line between cats that are more about payload versus cats that are about performance, but not so much where you’re going to fly a hull or break a rudder. There’s a balance within a boat that really performs that you can still live aboard.” A winning balance, it turns out, with the Balance 482 securing its position as the Best Performance Cruiser for 2022.

  • More: balance catamarans , Boat of the Year , Boat of the Year 2022 , catamaran , Kinetic Catamarans , print 2022 jan , Sailboats , seawind catamarans
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performance sailing catamarans

20 Performance Cruising Catamaran Reviews

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Catamarans are exciting and fast sailboats that offer some great features. With so many types and brands to choose from, it’s hard to find which is worth your investment. So, what are the top performance cruising catamarans ?

The best performance cruising catamarans are the Manta 42, Dolphin 42, Leopard 48, and Fountaine Pajot Elba 45. The McConaghy MC50, Privilege 435, and Nautitech 441 are also impressive models. The best offer optimal performance and can sail a 250-mile voyage easily.

Have you just begun your catamaran research but don’t know which to buy? Are you looking for a performance cruising catamaran that’s worth the investment? Let’s take a closer look at 20 performance cruising catamarans and what makes them the best.

The Top 20 Performance Cruising Catamarans

Catamarans are racing ships that have slowly been making waves in the cruising world. The design focuses on lightness and simplicity. Combined, these two elements ensure a faster ship and make them great for long distances.

The multiple hulls on the catamarans offer optimal water displacement, allowing them to glide through the water with much less trouble than single-hull boats. Because of their design, a catamaran’s performance will vary depending on the conditions you sail them through. The ocean and wind will play a significant role in how fast your catamaran will go as well as how smooth the ride will be.

When comparing catamarans for speed, there are four numbers you’ll want to consider:  

  • Bruce Number: The speed potential based on the power (sail-area) to weight ratio of the boat
  • Texel Rating (TR): A formula that will calculate how long it takes to sail any distance
  • Kelsall Sailing Performance (KSP): Potential speed of a vessel
  • Base Speed: The average speed of a boat over 24 hours of sailing

These numbers signify a cat’s performance so that you can pick the one that best suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a fast catamaran or not.

In addition to speed, your catamaran should have everything you need to be comfortable on your voyages. There should be plenty of living space for you and your crew or family members. When choosing the best catamaran for your needs, consider how much gear you will have with you on any given trip and if the ship you’re looking at has enough space for all of it.

The Manta 42 is a favorite of many sailors. Its beautiful design has a high bow and an incorporated curved crossbeam, the latter being unique and making the ship easy to spot from far distances and onshore.

Typically, aluminum crossbeams are used, and they allow for more movement in the bows. Since the Manta 42 doesn’t use aluminum ones, the ship is more susceptible to cracks in the bow caused by stress. However, the width of the Manta 42 makes the ship stable on the water, and the narrow hulls make it great for slicing through the water with speed and agility.

The Dolphin 42 has the best balance of performance and cruising comfort . What is truly special about these boats is that they come equipped with daggerboards . These bad ass features allow the ship to pull into just about any anchorage, including the shallow ones. 

The Dolphin is made with a foam core, which is designed to make the entire ship lighter. However, this doesn’t compromise the performance of the boat. It makes it perfect for cruising through the ocean with high-performance levels.

One thing to keep in mind is those convenient daggerboards. If the ship were to run aground, the hull integrity could be compromised. And if the daggerboards are removed or lifted, they will expose the rudders underneath. These features don’t ruin the ship’s functionality, but it’s important to note them just in case.

The Leopard 48 is a catamaran that you’ll definitely want to see. The design uses some of the best techniques to ensure optimal speed, weight, and cruising performance. The hulls are narrow — like most catamarans — and are built to reduce the amount of water that flows on the deck. It also reduces the amount of sea spray along the sides.

The Leopard 48 has two bulkheads (one in the bow and the other in the stern) designed to keep water out of the ship in an accident. It’s designed for long journeys, and the vessel comes with everything you could want for everyday living.

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

The Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 is a fantastic powerhouse ship with luxury at its core. The living quarters of this catamaran are impressive and are sure to provide you with every comfort you could possibly want, no matter how long you sail it for.

The designers considered everything when designing this ship. They’ve simplified the prep work for the sails, making it easier than ever to get underway. The build of the Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 makes it fast when sailing or when under power. 

McConaghy MC50

The McConaghy MC50 is on the smaller side of catamarans in the McConaghy brand, but that shouldn’t disqualify it. This ship was designed with wide-open concepts and high bows. There’s no doubt it’s made for luxury but can hold its own in performance and speed departments.

Even with its luxury items (such as its full washing machine), this ship moves through the water gently. While it’s clearly designed for comfort, it’s still a relatively fast boat. However, there is a downside to the layout of the boat. The helms are much more exposed than other catamarans, which could be a potential safety hazard.

Privilege 435

The Privilege 435 is a catamaran designed to go long distances. It uses a heavy displacement so that the ship glides through the water with ease. The vessel is also built with a low-slung structure to help prevent winds. 

A slight drawback could be the heat buildup caused by the sun seeping in through the windows, as there aren’t any outside shades or ways to block the sun except for the internal shades. The other downside to this catamaran is that the Privilege’s bridge deck has low clearance . Other than that, the ship is an excellent option for those looking for a well-built cat.

Nautitech 441

The Nautitech 441 is another impressive catamaran to consider. The interior is slightly smaller than some others we have gone over, but don’t let that fool you. This boat is full of great features to make your trip comfortable and successful.

For example, the Nautitech 441 is equipped with a rain gutter situated around the entire coachroof. This gives you the option to collect the water for your freshwater tanks, or you can simply let it drain off the boat through the Y-shaped valve.

It’s a fast little boat that can use either the sails or fuel to reach 9 knots in moderate conditions. That’s not bad if you’re looking for a comfortable, decent-sized cruising ship with a bit of a kick.

The ICE Cat 61 is a catamaran designed and developed in Italy. The ship uses a carbon mast and is very easy to use.

The ship’s size and the power-to-weight ratio allow for reaching top speeds that isn’t possible with a monohull. The living areas are also large and are perfect for entertaining, making the ICE Cat 61 a great option to consider when shopping for your new catamaran.

The unique aspect of the Lagoon 440 is the engine. It doesn’t not have to run on diesel fuel because Lagoon offers a fully electric version. This is great for those who are looking for a more eco-friendly way to run their boat. This catamaran uses two electric motors, which are mounted on each hull of the ship, but the best part is that these engines are almost entirely silent.

The inside is just as luxurious as the engine is, designed with families in mind and for long-distance journeys. It’s a ship that would handle itself perfectly in deeper waters and even in harsh winds.

Antares 44i

The Antares 44i is a well-designed catamaran that is meant for long-distance journeys like most catamarans are. The layout is engineered to give you the best views throughout your trip, and the cockpit is fully equipped in the event you’re sailing single handed.

The motors are installed in a discrete location and are almost completely silent, allowing for outstanding performance without sacrificing your comforts. There’s tons of storage available as well for all of the gear that comes with sailing.

The Catana 50 has a well-built design that is meant for high speeds and effective sailing. The daggerboards help the hulls cut through the water with little trouble. There is also excellent storage for your gear located throughout the boat.

What is genuinely superior in this catamaran is the ability it holds to turn itself around with ease and speed. There is no struggle to reverse the ship and maneuver it around the dock. Walking around on the boat is easy enough, but the cockpit setup and helm are situated awkwardly, so it requires a bit of walk around to use all of the ship’s controls. 

The Voyage 44 is a performance cruising catamaran that is well-built for a bargain price. It’s something that you just can’t beat when looking for a new yacht because this ship has everything you could ask for.

It’s designed with day cruising in mind, but that won’t limit it to short distances. What’s also great about this boat is the amount of seating it offers, fitting 32 people comfortably. The ship is functional, and the layout is designed to make traveling onboard the vessel as simple and straightforward as possible.

Atlantic 42

The Atlantic 42 is a fan favorite. This loyal following stems from the Atlantic’s look and effectiveness, and consumers seem to love how easy this ship is to sail and how capable it is for deep ocean sailing.

The size of the Atlantic 42 is something fans of this catamaran love. It might look small from the outside, but the inside layout is well done and feels spacious. The cockpit location in front of the mainmast takes advantage of the rest of the ship’s structure, making it a more flexible design than some other catamarans available.

Outremer 45

The Outremer 45 is designed a bit differently from other catamarans because the hulls are narrower than usual. This helps make the Outremer 45 a fast ship, but it’s done for safety reasons as well. The narrower hulls will prevent the vessel from skidding on the water as much as other catamarans. It also reduces any pitching you might experience from flying through the water at top speeds.

The interior is smaller than many other boats in this article, but the design doesn’t sacrifice your comfort. The cabin has an open concept to easily pull the outdoor seating into the indoor living space, meaning it’s perfect for entertaining and comfortable living. 

The Bahia 46 is on the bigger side by catamaran standards. It’s designed by the brand Fountaine Pajot, which has been building catamarans for years. In fact, Fountaine Pajot is one of the leading brands in cruising catamarans.

The foam core’s overall design, the high bridge deck clearance , and the low center of gravity make this ship an excellent option for deep ocean sailing. It will hold its own on rough waters as well, and there’s also plenty of space for entertaining on the inside of the ship. 

The Prout 45 is an excellent catamaran to consider if you plan to sail with a limited crew. The positioning of the mainsail and the mast make it simple to use and easy to reach. Also, the mainsail itself is smaller than other ships and easy to handle.

The interior isn’t like some of the newer models. In new catamarans, the concept is more open and free-flowing between inside and outside. In the Prout 45, things are more traditional but still comfortable. Don’t worry; you still have plenty of room to entertain and plot your voyage.

Gemini 105MC

The Gemini 105MC is a unique catamaran. That’s because instead of being designed solely by the builder, it’s a collective effort from the builder and many sailors who used the vessel. They wrote in their suggestions to improve the Gemini, and the builder used the most relevant ones to build the newer models.

If you’re looking for a ship for a cross-ocean voyage, you may want to consider another catamaran. Due to the ship’s size and weight, it’s less likely to make it across the ocean. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not a great ship, and this vessel is perfect for sailing near the coast. 

The Gunboat 62 is the first catamaran of this brand. The Gunboat 62 is an older model, but it’s still considered one of the fastest. These ships were also the first to introduce luxury to performance cruising. 

The interior is slightly outdated, and technology has advanced since the brand launched these ships. However, this boat’s overall performance is unmatched, though there also isn’t as much space available for storage. 

Marsaudon TS5

The Marsaudon TS5 is one of the fastest catamarans available. It’s designed with panoramic views from the interior, and the ship speeds up quickly due to its lightweight design and shape.

The ship can be challenging to maneuver, which makes it better suited for experienced sailors. While the interior still has plenty of luxuries, it can be considered bare. The designers want to keep the ship light to increase its speed, meaning some comforts have been sacrificed, such as space in the living quarters.

Unlimited C53

The Unlimited C53 is a fast racing catamaran with all the comforts of a cruising ship. The design uses a new technique of connecting the two hulls at 1.3m above the waterline. This is unheard of in most catamarans, and this feature minimizes how the ship handles rougher seas.

The ship uses all of the necessary tanks and equipment to keep the boat balanced on the water. Perfect weight displacement throughout the vessel makes it ideal for racing and long-distance sailing. The interior is also spacious and provides all of the comforts you could need. 

In the end, the best performance cruising cat for you is going to come down to your personal preferences and what you want in a boat. Each catamaran on this list is going to provide you the best features you could ever imagine in a ship. Hopefully, the reviews of the top 20 performance cruising catamarans will help you find your dream boat!

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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12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

Best Catamaran Sailboats | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

The appeal of the catamaran sailboats in terms of speed , stability, and the ability to embark on long-range cruising has made them hugely popular with today's sailors. But what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Even though catamaran sailboats have become increasingly popular in the last few years, they have a truly rich legacy as one of the most sought after vessels for bluewater cruising.

Thanks to their incredibly wide beams and bigger daft, catamarans have become remarkably favorable for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages, overnight cruising, and day sailing.

And if space is paramount for you when out there on the water, a catamaran sailboat is the only way to go as they offer extraordinary space to allow you to spend more time on the water with friends and family.

But even with all these amazing features, you're probably still wondering; what are the best catamaran sailboats?

Like their monohull counterparts, choosing the best catamaran sailboat can be quite overwhelming since there are lots of them out there. They come in a wide variety of designs and sizes ranging from small catamarans to huge ones.

The best catamaran sailboats can easily clock 250-mile voyages, offer incredible performance, and have layouts that can be easily optimized for individuals, charter markets, and great accommodation. In essence, the best catamaran sailboats offer respectable performance and offer good load-carrying ability.

That being said, here are some of the best catamaran sailboats that you can get your hands on.

Table of contents

Best Catamarans

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

Even though many multihulls are no longer built in the United States these days, the Manta 42 is a true American-built catamaran that brings good living and good value into one package. Designed cleverly for easy handling, this American built catamaran is a great choice for a liveaboard cruiser for sailors looking to go for long-distance voyages. Thanks to its trademark high bows and an enormously curved incorporated forward crossbeam, this catamaran is easily recognizable even from a distance.

It is designed with a uniquely fixed crossbeam, which is very different from conventional aluminum cross beams that support the tension of the forestay. This fixed crossbeam allows for a little bit of movement thereby helping in absorbing enormous twisting forces of the bows. As such, you have to keep in mind that there may be resultant stress crack particularly in the bow area of the vessel.

All in all, the Manta 42 is a superb offshore cruising catamaran that offers a good sail-area-to-displacement ratio as well as plenty of space and accommodation. The cockpit area is refined, luxurious, and is designed with additional stainless pushpit contraptions to help in holding objects such as wind vanes, dinghies, and solar panels. The boat's quality in terms of performance and stability is the benchmark of what a catamaran should be.

Fountaine Pajot Elba 45

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

Recently named the "Boat of the Year" for 2019 by Cruising World Magazine and Sail Magazine, the Elba 45 is the latest model in the incredible line of Fountaine Pajot catamarans. This boat was designed to replace the outgoing Helia 44 and stands to be one of the most popular catamarans with Fountain Pajot having sold over 100 Elba 45 hulls long before even the first one emerged from production.

This French-built cat brings to the fore a well-thought-out, safe, and dependable features with 10% less drag, efficient motoring, top-notch performance, and high speeds. It's also designed with fixed stub keels and slightly aft-raked bows, which are all essential in enhancing windward performance; something that most catamarans struggle with.

To improve on safety, the keels of this amazing catamaran sailboat are glued into a particularly designed recess in the hulls. This is to ensure that there are no keel bolts that can rip out and put the boat in danger if the boat gets grounded or in the event of a collision. The rig is also ICW friendly and is a true representation of a standard catamaran setup.

This is, without a doubt, a modern-looking cruising catamaran that has a low-profile lounging space on its deck, high topsides and bows as well as a more pronounced reverse sheer that's essential in minimizing the bulk of the windows while creating additional and useful volume below. This is a true catamaran that occupies a sweet spot for those looking to sail along the bay or for those adventurous sailors looking to set sail for more ambitious offshore cruising plans.

{{boat-info="/boats/leopard-48"}}

With its fine design, straightforward systems, and easy handling, the Leopard 48 has everything it needs to be ranked among the distinguished category of the best catamaran sailboats. This is an excellent multihull that is structured with advanced materials, designs, and innovations that are meant to be fun, spacious, and comfortable.

Designed in South Africa by Simonis-Voogd, is probably the best design in the Leopard family of catamarans. Its two hulls are vacuum-bagged using balsa core to offer maximum firmness while ensuring that the weight is on the minimum. This is done by articulately regulating the level of resin in the layup. With such types of hull shapes, this catamaran sailboat is very fast and can consistently clock 12 knots of speed against the currents.

The boat is also designed with shallow keels as they're filled with closed-cell polyurethane foam that's of great importance in increasing buoyancy and preventing water ingress. To enhance the safety of the vessel, the stern and bow both have bulkheads that are essential in keeping out that water if the sailboat is involved in a collision.

The hulls of this boat are deep and narrow, particularly below the waterline. They also curve higher up to practically reduce the wetted surface area while offering enough deck space and plenty of room for accommodations. Its cockpit is another excellent feature thanks to its lavish spaces that give you the chance of kicking back and relaxing.

This boat is designed to offer superior livability, quick and easy to handle features, as well as enough space for friends and family. It is designed with beautiful lines and immense practicality for those who want to go on long cruising voyages.

Antares 44i

While many people often believe that voluminous cruising catamarans should be used as charter boats, the Antares 44i brings a very different perspective altogether. Designed in Argentina as a complete bluewater catamaran, this is a boat that's specifically built for private boat owners looking for a sturdy and well-equipped bluewater cruiser. This is an absolutely gorgeous catamaran that has a fully-equipped cockpit just to ensure that you can safely operate it even when shorthanded.

Like most catamarans, the Antares 44i is designed with features that allow for long-distance voyages. It comes with a minimum bridge deck clearance of 30 inches, which is essential in mitigating bridge deck slap. The helm station is designed to offer excellent visibility over the coach roof without having to perch the helmsman high above the cockpit.

If you're planning to make those long-distance cruising to exotic places, you'll appreciate this boat's layout. The galley is put down in the port hull so that it doesn't compromise the size of the galley and the saloon. The forward-facing navigation station is up there with the best and is up to offshore standards. And that's not all; the Antares 44i comes with good mounting points for electronics, a large table, comfortable seats, and provides brilliant visibility outside.

This boat is perfectly suited for extended offshore cruising and is a great reminder for anyone who thinks that all catamarans are charter boats and all offshore boats are monohulls.

{{boat-info="/boats/dolphin-ocema-42"}}

Designed by Philipe Pouvreau in northern Brazil, the Dolphin Ocema 42 is a truly unique catamaran sailboat that goes against the conventional norm of catamarans. It is equipped with daggerboards, which are essential in enabling it to point higher on the wind while reducing the wetted surface when running or anchoring in shallow surfaces. This, however, requires a higher level of expertise in sailing. This is because lifting the daggerboards higher up will expose the rudders while the daggerboards can also interfere with the hulls in the event that the vessel runs aground.

But even with that, the Dolphin 42 balances incredible performance and cruising comfort in a very compact package; something that is not very easy in bluewater cruising. That's why it's designed using a foam core to make it lightweight by reducing weight wherever possible. This vessel will most likely never let you down if you want to circumnavigate the bluewater on a high-performance boat that is safe and comfortable.

So if you've been looking for a real sailing catamaran that doubles up as a very comfortable liveaboard sailboat , look no further than the Dolphin 42.

{{boat-info="/boats/catana-50"}}

Regarded as the best built and most stylish cruising multihull, the Catana 50 is a very huge catamaran sailboat. Measuring about 50 feet long with a beam of about 26 feet, this is an amazing catamaran that will test your sailing skills as a single sailor or if you're planning to sail shorthanded.

This boat is designed with a rig that gives you the option of using either a screecher or a self-tending jib. This may seem complex since the sheets are led to winches near each wheel while all other controls lead to a centerline winch that's located in the cockpit. But even with that, this sailboat can be easily tacked once on the course.

This is a real performance-oriented catamaran with efficient hulls and rigs allowing for top speed. This vessel is also designed with a long waterline and a subtle underwater shape at the bow to help in increasing volume while minimizing wave drag. The stern platforms can help in stretching the waterline length while also providing easy access from a dock or a dinghy. The board trunks are also very strong and sturdy to protect the integrity of the hulls if a collision occurs.

In essence, this is a very modern catamaran that's designed to safely make long-distance passages with ease. It is subdued in terms of styling but this doesn't mean that it falls short as far as performance is concerned.

Atlantic 42

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

Designed in 1993, the A42 has cultivated a legion of fiercely loyal fans thanks to its efficiency and aesthetic. This is the smallest of the Atlantic cruising catamaran line and is hugely popular with sailors thanks to its ease of handling, ocean-going capabilities, and superb use of space. From the forward cockpit, pilothouse to the sleeping cabins, and brilliant galleys everything about this cat is a true classic.

Unlike most catamarans, the Atlantic 42 is designed with a waist-high cockpit that's located forward of the pilothouse just behind the mast. It brings forth a solid construction thanks to the large metal girder-like bearers that run across the bulkheads. This helps the vessel in having the utmost strength, better air circulation under the engine, and a high level of flexibility as far as the size of the engine and its positioning is concerned.

Initially, the boat's style and its outlook were considered conservative but it soon became clear that it is built of high-quality materials and to last. The internal construction of the boat is impressive, to say the least. The exterior looks very beautiful and perhaps much more beautiful than most boats today. Its large aft cabin accommodation is a top drawer while the space separating en suite heads and shower compartments are considered a bonus.

{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-bahia-46"}}

If you were to board the French-built Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46, you'll agree that the high-quality of workmanship, layout, and efficient use of space is quite exciting, to say the least. This cat remains very popular among sailors thanks to its easy handling features and incredible performance under the sails. Well, this may not come as a surprise to many of us given that the Fountain Pajot is known for building some of the most remarkable cruising catamarans out there that it can be quite overwhelming to narrow down to a single vessel, but the Bahia 46 simply stands out.

This vessel is designed with hulls that are broader than those of many other catamarans. It's also designed with centerboards and daggerboards that are meant to enhance its performance. These are essential in minimizing draft while ensuring reliability, generous bilge, and in helping to protect the rudders and propellers.

This boat is big enough to manage any type of serious offshore sailing. This is one of the best cruising catamarans for anyone looking for the right vessel for long-distance sailing. This vessel has a very more generous rig than most cruising catamarans, which is essential in enhancing its performance. The six-post Bimini is very strong and clean and can perfectly hold dinghies.

In terms of its look, the Bahia 36 is designed with gorgeous lines with the deck and hulls sculpted with lines that add a touch of elegance to the overall look of an already excellent catamaran sailboat.

Gemini 105MC

{{boat-info="/boats/gemini-105mc"}}

Whether you're looking for a comfortable catamaran vessel to take you for a weekend sailing trip or a long sabbatical vacation on the oceans, the Gemini 105MC is a very satisfactory liveaboard catamaran vessel that offers spacious accommodation, thoughtful design, and a stable cruising platform for anyone who wants to have some good time on the water.

Designed by the legendary Tony Smith, this is somewhat a sailing cottage. Like a land cottage, it is cozy, comfortable, and very safe. This is essentially a 35 feet catamaran that offers great value for any sailing looking for a reasonably-priced catamaran sailboat for the weekend or holiday cruising.

This boat is designed with incredibly slim hulls, which are teardrop-shaped with flat bottoms and smaller wetted surface area. This is to ensure that drag is minimized and to lead to more leeway under sail. Each of the boat's hull is designed with a kick-up centerboard is of great importance in enhancing the vessel's windward pointing capability. This boat also has its rudders raised to enable it to seamlessly cruise in shallow waters where most vessels would otherwise run aground.

The eccentric narrow beam, which measures about 40% of the boat's length, is very different from today's 50%. However, its low center helps in keeping its stable, upright, and of course, safe.

Lagoon 450 F

{{boat-info="/boats/lagoon-450-f"}}

If you're looking for a catamaran sailboat that offers prestige at its peak, look no further than the Lagoon 450. This cat is widely known for offering an all-around comfort without compromising its beauty, spaciousness, class, and elegance. This is an elaborate French catamaran that brings to the table fantastic craftsmanship while leaving nothing to chance.

This is a very safe 45 feet catamaran that's not just comfortable but also very luxurious. The deck layout is centered on an amazing flybridge, which has been redesigned and redefined to offer both the traditional and modern outlook. You can very easily access the bridge, engine controls, steering station in a matter of seconds. As a result, this boat is efficiently designed to give you the ultimate control of almost every situation while on the water.

The spacious and luxurious interior of this boat is worth experiencing. The cabins and saloons are perfectly lit. We're talking about four to six cabins, eight to twelve berths, and up to four bathrooms. In essence, this boat can comfortably sleep eight to twelve people. This boat is designed to offer ultra-modern accommodations and amenities that come with little but amazing touches; all designed to make your life inside the catamaran enjoyable.

{{boat-info="/boats/gunboat-62"}}

An original performance catamaran cruiser from the iconic Gunboat manufacturer, the Gunboat 62 has truly cemented its place as one of the best catamaran sailboats to ever grace the oceans. Honestly speaking, this cat-inspired a whole range of other incredible boats including HH66 Catamaran and the Balance 526.

This is a boat that can perform admirably well in storms with a speed of over 35 knots despite being built using epoxy and E-glass with carbon-fiber structural components. It's designed with a distinct angular outline than most catamaran sailboats of its size and category. This is a vessel that was built for people looking to add more stuff and more gear for their voyages. In other words, you can have all the gear and equipment on this boat and still outperform a racing monohull of the same size.

Thanks to its lightweight feature, this vessel can sail upwind at speeds of over 17 knots and pinch up to 30 degrees. Just for comparison, the Gunboat 62 can tack through 95 degrees and still outperform the best racing monohulls. This boat is designed with a comfortable helm seat that offers 360-degree visibility as well as plenty of storage space, a functional working surface, and a luxurious cabin. Like many performance catamarans, the Gunboat 62 can attain about 20 knots if the conditions are right.

Privilege 615

{{boat-info="/boats/privilege-615"}}

Combining elegance, comfort, and style, the Privilege 615 is a lovely catamaran sailboat that seems to be always ready for a long offshore voyage. The roots of this incredible cat can be traced back to the 1980s when Philippe Jeantot opened up a boat-building company in France. As one of the best productions from the company, the privilege 615 sports a flybridge that comes complete with twin wheels, a sprawling sunbed, and other excellent features that will make your bluewater cruising a breeze.

Whether you want the charter version or a privately-owned version, the Privilege 615 is one of the most versatile catamaran sailboats. Step inside this vessel and you'll instantly notice the quality of the wood finish and the elegance of design. The advanced navigation station is not only ultra-modern but is perfectly stationed at a dedicated corner where you can control everything while still having a conversation with your friends and family.

This boat comes with multiple sleeping configurations to ensure that you and your guests can live aboard the boat for months on end. Although the boat appears like some sort of maze on the inside, you'll easily get used to it when you enter the forward section. That's not all; this boat has gorgeous lines that make the exterior beautiful just like the interior. Its sleek profile, incredible volume, and versatile interior make it one of the best catamaran sailboats out there.

There you have it; these are the best catamaran sailboats out there. It doesn't matter the one you choose, these cats will make your day out on the water and will serve you just right for your offshore voyages or for day sailing along the bays.

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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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Yachting World

  • Digital Edition

Yachting World cover

Performance cruisers: the best new catamarans for racing and fast cruising 2018

  • Toby Hodges
  • August 20, 2018

McConaghy MC50 sailing

This is where the worlds of racing and cruising multis meet, where we see high-tech lightweight craft that use exotic materials and daggerboards to help produce electrifying sailing. Gunboat was arguably the first to identify this market on a luxury level, and has since been joined by HH, McConaghy, Ice Cat, and ITA.

And then there are the performance multis that are more minimalist and lean more towards the offshore racer than cruiser – like Marsaudon, Dragonfly, Banuls, Dazcat, and Rapido… fun factor guaranteed!

Just launched: McConaghy MC50

McConaghy MC50 on water

Fresh from the Australian composite wizards McConaghy, the MC50 is the smallest series catamaran in a new range that runs up to 90ft. Drawn by Jason Ker, renowned for his IRC winners, the MC50 has performance in her DNA, designed as a fast cruising cat, capable of crossing oceans. The MC line has incorporated input of experienced owners and sailors, and includes some impressive features. For example, the doors between the saloon and the cockpit concertina, while the saloon windows slide open electrically for al-fresco living. A skylight down the middle of the coachroof lets light flood in, and can be specced as a large ‘solar glass’ generator to keep batteries topped up. Then there is the standard cross brace between the bows, which has been eliminated by using a carbon fibre longeron down the boat’s centreline, tensioned with Nitronic rod stays. The first hull launched in time for La Grande Motte boatshow in April and the performance predictions are bold. Polars from McConaghy suggest speeds of over 10 knots in a stiff Force 6, at 30° off the true wind. Bear away onto a broad reach and she is expected to manage 21 knots-plus. Upwind performance is boosted by 3.5m-deep hydraulic daggerboards in each hull, which include a fail-safe in the event of underwater collision. 
“We expect her to track upwind extremely well,” says James Kinloch 
of McConaghy. And yet this is no pared-down raceboat. The saloon has deep seating to starboard and an extending table gives dining space for at least eight, and can convert into lounging room if you drop the table and install the fill-in cushion. The galley and island unit to port are more penthouse than deckhouse, with induction hob and moulded-in sinks. Sensibly, there is a navigation station at the forward end of the saloon, with good visibility ahead and access to all the systems. The styling was undertaken by Design Unlimited. “The concept was to create a penthouse apartment on the living deck,” says Ole John, director of McConaghy Multihulls Europe. 
“The 35-40m2 of space must be the biggest for a 50ft yacht.”

McConaghy MC50 saloon

First impressions

McConaghy MC50 cabin

The MC50 is a clever boat. A Ker/McConaghy project, it might be expected to be all about the performance. That has yet to be proved, but the first MC50 to launch stole the show at its La Grande Motte debut in April thanks to the sheer amount of open-plan living space it offers. The natural light and ventilation offered by using sliding doors and windows needs to be seen to be believed, and the general feeling is that of a condo/apartment on the main deck. The view from the helms on the aft flybridge is excellent, but I wonder how these relatively high positions will feel in a rolling sea. The most impressive aspect for me, however, is the engineering detail, something Ker is known for. It can be seen in the length to which he and the yard has gone with the mast base and bowsprit longeron supports, and the hydraulic centreboards that swing into the hulls. The latter offer a clever solution to the problem of providing the performance benefits of 3.5m-deep boards without swallowing excessive accommodation space. The boards have fail-safe pins that break in a collision without 
risk of leaking hydraulic fluid; and they take just 12 seconds to raise. This is a boat that we are itching to sail.

At a glance…

LOA: 49ft 10in (15.20m) Beam: 26ft 3in (8.00m) Draught: 3ft 3in – 8ft 10in (1.00m – 2.70m) Displacement: 14.5 tonnes Price: from €1.33m Contact: McConaghy 

Just launched: ICE Cat 61

Ice Cat 61 exterior

Italy’s ICE Yachts has been on the scene since the turn of the millennium, but it is only now making a foray into multihulls. And it is starting big, with a 61, and a 67 further down the line. Its calling card has always been style at the service of performance, and the cats will be no different. Enrico Contreas has designed a dashing hull with just a hint of reverse bow and a long, curved quarter. It’s stylish, but also practical. “Avoiding highly reversed bows allows for easy recovery of the mooring lines,” says Marco Malgara, ICE Yachts’ CEO. Likewise, the shallow curve of the coachroof is more than just a flick of the designer’s pen: it is intended to reduce windage and help the catamaran go to windward. This is one reason that she can reportedly manage near 30° true wind angles. Another is the manually-operated carbon foils that reduce her displacement by about 15 per cent, and the way the rig is designed. “The angle going to windward is almost like a monohull,” Malgara says.

ICE Cat 61 galley

The yachts are built using ultra-modern techniques. On the standard version, the hull and superstructure employ a mix of glass and carbon fibre vacuum-infused with epoxy to ensure that just 35-40 per cent of the final weight is resin. Everything on the boat is foam-cored. Customers have so far unanimously opted for the RS version of the 61, which uses all carbon fibre. ICE has tried to mitigate the handling of a large, technical boat with electric winches and a self-tacking jib. The sheets of both sails are on travellers, giving maximum sail trimming options and a tighter sheeting angle for better windward performance. The helms are towards the aft end of the cockpit, behind a pod-like console, giving the skipper more the sense of a monohull. Dispensing with a raised helm station keeps the boom and the centre of gravity low, making for a more comfortable ride and better performance, predicted at 25 knots. The interior is more architectural than your average luxury yacht. Expect more of a kitchen than a galley in the large open space of the saloon. The configuration allows for three, four or five cabins, including a compact crew berth in the starboard bow.

At a  glance…

LOA: 61ft (18.60m) Beam: 28ft 3in (8.60m) Draught: 3ft 3in (1.00m) Displacement:  15 tonnes Price: From €1.35m Contact: Ice Yachts

Coming up: HH50

HH 50 Exterior

HH Catamarans has been turning heads since 2012 with a line of sporty, high-tech boats that feature a luxury fit-out. What started off on the drawing board as a fast 48ft cruising cat has grown to 50ft in the building. “One of the biggest reasons was 
the addition of a second helm station aft,” explained marketing manager 
Will Hobbs. “That and, during the design review, we found we were able to increase sail efficiency by 6 per cent if we lengthened the hull.” The lay-up is all carbon, with twin bulkhead helm stations and long-skirted hulls. With a self-tacking jib and push-button controls at the helm station, she should be a breeze to sail short-handed. Her accommodation all looks very elegant – dark teak contrasting with lighter fabrics. The saloon windows are huge, letting light gush in, with a semi-horseshoe galley to starboard, a navstation forward and dining table to port. There are configurations allowing for three or four cabins. Morelli & Melvin’s design generally looks modern and aggressive (even if we question the aesthetics of the hard biminis above the helms).

LOA: 49ft 10in (15.20m) Beam: 24ft 4in (7.44m) Draught: 4ft 11in-10ft 6in (1.50m-3.20m) Displacement: 15 tonnes Price: Tbc Contact: HH Catamarans

Just launched: Marsaudon TS5

Marsaudon TS5 Exterior

Even if you haven’t heard of Marsaudon, you’re likely to be familiar with its work. The Brittany-based boatbuilder is responsible for some of the world’s biggest and fastest multihulls, including the trimaran IDEC 2, in which Francis Joyon demolished the round-the-world record in 2008. Operating out of an old U-boat pen in Lorient, France, this composite expert has only been crafting its own brand of cruising catamarans for a few years, but it has already become its mainstay. It began with the TS42, which has reached 10 units, then the well-regarded TS50. The new TS5 is a remodelled version of this, with all-new tooling and a length overall of 55ft. Even before the first one hit the water, half a dozen boats had been pre-sold, such is the reputation of this builder.

Marsaudon TS5 Exterior

LOA: 49ft 10in (15.20m) Beam: 28ft 3in (8.60m) Draught: 3ft 11in-9ft 10in (1.20m-3.00m) Displacement: 8.6 tonnes Price: from €620,000 Contact: Marsdon Composites

Coming up: ITA 14.99

ITA 14.99 Aft

ITA Catamarans is a new brand, but the team behind this 14.99 are no strangers to the trade and have experience from many of the major Italian shipyards. The naval architecture is by Francois Perus, whose Yacht Design Collective has worked with brands such as Catana and North Wind on their multihulls. The result is a sleek-looking craft with stylish dreadnought bows and refreshingly low-profile coachroof. This sets the tone for the boat, due to launch this summer, which is all about stellar performance within the envelope of a fast cruiser. Take the twin helm stations, for instance – they are perched on the aft coaming. This frees up the cockpit for socialising, without compromising the boat’s stability by putting the weight 
of the helm on the coachroof. The result looks as if it could feel exposed in bad weather, although there is a wraparound seat, and the Jefa pedestal can swing inboard if necessary. The outer position gives you optimal views ahead and to windward. The dreadnought bows are designed to give extra waterline length for speed, while the long, fine underwater profile of the hulls is optimised for comfort through the waves. The flatter sections aft mean that she should plane at speed, and the winch-trimmed daggerboards improve performance to windward. High-tech foam sandwich lay-up and the use of carbon fibre in key areas keeps the hulls light and stiff.

ITA 14.99 saloon

There should be plenty of power from her fathead main and self-tacking jib. “Since most cruisers consists of one couple for sailing, the deck and running rigging had to be of a design so that one person can easily manage all sailing manoeuvres from the safety of the cockpit,” says Sonia Segato, head of marketing at ITA Catamarans. The mainsheet runs back to blocks on the aft crossbeam, where Harken 50 winches are within easy reach of the helm. It is a set-up that has worked well for monohull sailors, and this boat’s low profile coachroof makes it possible here too. The designer’s ambition is clearly bluewater, because the boat’s equipment and latest technology includes a Schenker watermaker and Oceanvolt electric propulsion, backed up with twin regenerating props that allow you to recharge the lithium-ion batteries as you sail. There’s scope for owners to choose their own interior design. “Nothing is set in stone”, says ITA. The heart of the boat is its comfy saloon, which has wraparound toughened glass windows, and the starboard hull is turned over to the owner’s suite. There are several configurations to choose from, including one with an office and another with bunks. Weight management is taken very seriously. The complete hulls weigh 2,250kg, and the whole boat is infused in one shot to come in under five tonnes. The first 14.99 will be shown 
at Cannes, before the owner takes it 
on a circumnavigation.

LOA: 49ft 2in (14.99m) Beam: 25ft 7in (7.80m) Draught: 1ft 10in-7ft 8in (0.57m-2.35m) Displacement: 14.5 tonnes Price: €890,000 Contact: Itacatamarans

Coming up: Gunboat 68

Gunboat 68 render

Gunboat is back to what it does best with a show-stopping design for a 68ft oceanic catamaran. An all-carbon build again, the new 68 has heavily reversed wave-piercing bows and super low-profile coachroof, giving it an elegant but muscular look. There’s something of Gotham City about this yacht. Gunboat, which is now under French ownership, has brought in VPLP design for the naval architecture. They are veterans of some of the world’s biggest, fastest racing multihulls. The design team has broadened the beam of the boat and moved the mast further aft to make her more stable and easier to handle. That said, she’ll be no slouch, particularly if you select some of the turbo options, including longer rig for bigger sails, lighter weight and longer daggerboards. Speeds in excess of 25 knots in a blow, and up to 16 knots in a Force 4 are predicted. Benoit Lebizay, Gunboat’s managing partner, says: “500 miles per day is an achievable target”.

Gunboat 68 vue cockpit

LOA: 68ft (20.75m) Beam: 29ft 11in (9.1m) Draught: 3ft 11in-13ft 6in (1.20m-4.10m) Displacement: 23.8 tonnes Price: from €4.75m Contact: Gunboat

Best of the rest:

Unlimited yacht c53.

Unlimited Yacht C53 aft view

Vittorio Malingri, Italy’s first Vendée Globe sailor, is the nautical brain behind a new fast cruising catamaran, christened the Unlimited C53. With no website, his is a stealthy operation, but the first hull is sold and already in-build on the Adriatic coast between Ancona and San Marino. The boat has been designed with an experienced navigator’s eye, so the beams connecting the two hulls are an unprecedented 1.3m above the waterline, to minimise slamming in heavy seas. Tankage and heavy equipment are all positioned low and in the centre of the hulls for balance. And there is a heavy longeron, which makes for a stiffer forestay and therefore better windward performance. The twin helms are on swinging pedestals, and the boat uses foils and T-shaped rudders to provide lift to windward. There are three broad specification levels, depending on budget, with the top spec including full carbon lay-up.

Dazcat D1295

Dazcat D1295 on water

Launched at the end of last season, the D1295 is a potent new addition to the cruiser-racer cat market. It is the smaller sister to the very impressive D1495 we tested two years ago and 
leans on more than three decades of successful 
offshore racing builds from this Cornish yard. These cats can outrun weather or look after 
crew if caught out. Weight is kept low and central, including the engines, to create a fast smooth ride. It is also minimised wherever possible, with carbon used for the rudders, spinnaker pole V-striker, davits and bimini sections. “She points really high and is the fastest tacking Dazcat so far,” says Dazcat designer Darren Newton. “We did a two-second tack where she lost no momentum at all, which for a cruising cat is phenomenal!”

Razor Cat

Current models: 38' power cat and a 52' sailing cat

Developed by anchor yachts, built by pacific seacraft in the usa, razor cat 38 – foiling performance power cat.

performance sailing catamarans

The Razor Cat 38 is your “escape pod” for adventure cruising. Providing performance, efficiency, and comfort on the water through the unique features and well thought design. The foil system increases efficiency by up to 40% over non-foiling boats, while improving performance and ride comfort. With 400 gallons of fuel aboard you have a 500+ mile range cruising at 30 knots, with a top speed of 45 knots. A key design element that the Razor Cat 38 shares with the Razor Cat 52 is the central inside helm station and 360 degree views throughout the bridge deck from both the sitting and standing positions.

The Razor Cat 38 provides seamless indoor/outdoor living with the Vista Door, which enables the entire aft wall of the salon to raise into the cabin top when desired. This combined with the near 17 foot beam creates a very spacious “single level” living space that is larger, and more usable, than most 50′ monohull powerboats. The innovation does not stop there, the cockpit has a built in electric grill station on the port side (with a 12 volt icemaker beneath) and built in beverage fridge opposite on the starboard side. The aft cockpit seat spilts into two benches that can be relocated next to the deck steps when you want to access the transom. The transom folds down to make a large swimming platform or boarding area. The fold down transom has the added benefit that it extends beyond the end of the outboards when they are tilted out of the water which allows you to board from the transom when you are stern to a dock. You can also board the boat from either side with the convenient side cockpit access just forward of the outboards.

The salon has a linear galley to port that spans almost 8 1/2 feet and features a 24″ work station sink, Vitrifrigo DRW180 stainless steel fridge/freezer drawers, induction cooktop and oven, along with generous storage. Opposite the galley is the settee which has a high/low folding table (when lowered forms a coffee table or a double berth). The settee seat backs can flip forward or aft facing depending on how you wish to use the seats. The settees also have large slide out drawers beneath providing easy access to provisions. The central helm station commands the forward portion of the salon, with a large sliding hatch directly above the helm. There is also a removable co-pilot seat that locks in place on the starboard side of  the helm chair.

Each hull features a standard queen size berth with an opening hatch at the head of the berth. The large hull window features an opening port, providing ventilation and light that will be appreciated those aboard. The cabins also have a generous amount of storage with slide out drawers at the foot of the berth, inboard hanging locker, and outboard storage shelves. Moving aft past the steps from the hull to the salon you come to the head compartment and separate shower stall. Both the head compartment and shower stall have opening ports to add to the ventilation.

Forward of the salon is the systems room which is accessed by a large deck hatch that opens on gas struts. This is where the Lithium Ion batteries, inverter/chargers, and air conditioning units are located. This allows all the systems to be easily accessed and serviced while keeping them separate from the rest of the living area. Forward of the systems room is the comfortable forward cockpit which has storage beneath the cockpit seats. There is also large storage lockers in each bow which can be accessed by deck hatches and feature watertight bulkheads for added safety.

With the Razor Cat 38 you enjoy the journey as well as the destination!

performance sailing catamarans

Razor Cat 52 – Performance Cruising Sailing Catamaran

performance sailing catamarans

The focus of this design is elegant performance. An offshore capable multihull which is easily controlled and operated by one person from the safety and comfort of a central inside helm station, featuring 360 degree views throughout the bridge deck. All lines (with the exception of the genoa/spinnaker sheets) lead to two electric reversible winches located either side of the helm. The genoa/ spinnaker sheets are handled by the two electric reversible winches in the cockpit (that can also be controlled remotely at the helm). Couples that have spent time cruising know how critical it is to be able to handle the boat easily while on watch without having to wake your partner, this is not possible on most catamaran designs.

A properly designed and constructed catamaran can be a very fast, but only if it remains light and easily driven. This design has relatively narrow hulls with dagger boards, along with simple powerful rig. The high bridge deck clearance minimizes pounding in a seaway and greatly adds to the comfortable motion aboard while sailing. All systems are designed to be easily accessed and maintained, a critical feature on any true cruising sailboat.

The bridge deck offers indoor/outdoor living at its finest, with excellent sight lines when sitting or standing, in the salon as well as on the aft deck. While the inside helm is the control center of the boat, the large U-shaped galley is the heart of the boat and is located on the bridge deck across from the dinette with easy access to the aft deck. The galley features a bar, under counter fridge/freezer drawers, a large sink, a proper stove with oven, along with substantial counter space and storage.

The accommodations in each hull are configured to provide a generous aft cabin with a queen berth that is easy to get into from the foot of the berth, along with ample storage. Moving forward is a modified queen midship berth (which folds up to reveal a work bench when needed). Next is a large forward head compartment with separate shower stall and large hanging locker. On the occasion you have additional guests the dinette also converts to a spacious double berth.

The market has seen an ever increasing demand for catamarans, particularly among sailors who have previously owned cruising monohulls. These buyers are looking for a catamaran that is well built offering: speed, comfort, and safety that is easy to handle while remaining a joy to sail. They also want a design that allows them to enjoy indoor/outdoor living (while underway and at anchor) in a way that is not possible on a traditional monohull. However, most catamarans on the market are designed and built for the charter market, which focuses on maximizing the number of berths and interior accommodations without concern of the adverse effects it has on sailing performance. The Razor Cat focuses on what experienced sailors are looking for in a performance cruising catamaran.

performance sailing catamarans

RAZOR CAT - PERFORMANCE CRUISING CATAMARANS

josh

Origins of the Razor Cat

The development of the Razor Cat is the result of my personal experiences cruising with my wife  aboard a performance catamaran, as well as my nearly 20 years selling new and used yachts. During that time I have been listening to what my clients have been searching for in a cruising catamaran, and the Razor Cat is the culmination of those experiences.

I am excited to be working with such a talented team to bring the Razor Cat to life:

Schionning Designs has been designing performance multihulls for over 25 years. Credited with over 400 boats on the water and cruising the world and zero failures on record, speaks to the success of their designs.

Pacific Seacraft has earned a reputation as a highly skilled builder of ocean going yachts, which they build with pride in Washington, NC USA. Their passion for boat building will be evident from your initial contact, throughout the entire build process, and after you take delivery of your new Razor Cat.

I am confident that the Razor Cat’s combination of innovative design, remarkable performance, and exceptional build quality, will bring joy to her owners and all aboard.

Elevate your time on the water.

Josh Hodgson –  Owner of Anchor Yachts and Principal of Razor Cat

The Razor Cat Team

Anchor Yachts – Developer of the Razor Cats

Anchor Yachts was established in 1998. Providing international yacht brokerage services, as well as authorized representation for number of high quality build to order yacht lines, for both sailboats and powerboats. Our experience saves our clients time, money, and mistakes when purchasing and selling their yachts.

Josh Hodgson is the proud owner of Anchor Yachts. His love of boats started early in life while living aboard a catamaran in the Virgin Islands with his family when he was young. Boats have always been a presence and a passion in his life. He even met his wife while water skiing!

Applying his own sailing experiences, from living aboard a sailboat, to offshore voyages and coastal deliveries aboard a variety of boats, he has gained a firsthand appreciation of what makes a boat ready for sea. In addition, as the owner of Anchor Yachts since 2004, Josh has gained valuable experience by working with boaters to determine what they need in a boat to best accomplish what they are looking to do on the water.

Josh has listened to the comments and concerns of hundreds of boaters and have learned what it is that both men and women want in a proper boat. Through his long standing relationships with previous clients, he has come to know what they love about their boats and what they would like to change.

Josh is proud to have a long track record of helping people get what they want and maintaining positive relationships with his clients long after the sale. He looks forward to helping you expand your horizons on the water.

Pacific Seacraft -Builder of the Razor Cats

Pacific Seacraft was conceived more than 40 years ago in Southern California and has over the years become the preeminent builder of heavy weather capable bluewater sailing vessels.  Astonishingly, each model boat in the line has circumnavigated, with the venerable PS-34, 37, 40, and 44’s continuing to do it with regularity.

In 2007 Pacific Seacraft came under new ownership and was relocated to North Carolina.  Many of the longtime key personnel and department heads made the move to North Carolina and continue there today.  This new era saw an even further evolution of the commitment to robust construction, real world ocean performance, and aesthetic beauty.

Pacific Seacraft has continued to build the Crealock line which remains a very relevant and viable cruising sailboat series.  With Steve Brodie at the helm, the company began to expand their talent base and pursue larger custom and semi-custom projects.  These included the SouthSea 61 designed by Robert Perry, which is available in a dual cockpit ketch and deck salon sloop configurations.  This vessel is a model of modern technical construction with very traditional finishes.  She is billed as a gentleman’s world cruiser whose beauty is only exceeded by her capability.

Working in conjunction with designer Ted Fontaine, Pacific Seacraft built the very unique, and very high tech, Surfari 50 performance sloop for entertainer Jimmy Buffett.  Surfari boasts a lightweight infused epoxy hull with carbon reinforcing structure, carbon chain plates, hydraulic and electric controls for everything from mainsheet to transom tailgate, a pushbutton hydraulic lifting keel in a carbon fiber trunk, etc. All of this was executed with an of exceptional level of craftsmanship throughout, including unmatched interior woodwork details.

On the other end of the spectrum (and indicative of the company’s range), Pacific Seacraft is currently performing a full restoration of the last remaining North Carolina built Skipjack, built in 1915, and a very important part of North Carolinas maritime heritage.

While remaining true to the companies roots by continuing to produce very strong, beautiful, uncompromising vessels; Pacific Seacraft is also embracing new technologies, materials, and processes to continue to evolve and improve performance at sea.  This includes epoxy sandwich infusion construction, employment of high strength aramid and carbon fiber laminates, titanium fabrications, advanced hydraulics, etc.

An uncompromising high quality standard is maintained by performing the work in-house and in the USA.  Additionally, all materials and components undergo a rigorous evaluation with American and European components being employed where possible. While having evolved into more of a semi-custom builder, Pacific Seacraft has maintained and developed a broad range of in-house artisans and capabilities ranging from high tech composite fabrications, to metal fabrication and machining, to exquisite upholstery.  The Pacific Seacraft team boasts over 200 years of combined boatbuilding experience.  This level of experience, range, and control not only ensures a very high standard of quality but also to allow advanced levels of customization and engagement for discerning clients.

Schionning Designs   – Designer of the Razor Cat 52

Schionning Designs has been working within the marine industry, in Australia and around the World, to engineer and develop luxury cruising and racing multihulls using the best composite solutions. Having designed catamarans for more than 25 years, Schionning Designs has grown to become one of the World’s top multihull designers.

Schionning Designs are some of the safest, fastest, most luxurious cruising catamarans on the market today. With over 400 boats on the water, cruising the worlds oceans, and zero design failures on record, the designs have proven themselves in the real world.

Crescendo Designs – Designer of the Razor Cat 38 Power Cat

Robert Quinn is the principal of Crescendo Designs who was the lead designer at Schionning Designs that was responsible for Razor Cat 52 design. His work in marine design and engineering has included both sail and power, with a focus on performance catamarans in both categories. He has also designed the innovative Max Cruise Marine catamarans. After having such a positive experience working closely with Robert on the Razor Cat 52 project it was clear that Crescendo Designs was the perfect fit to design the Razor Cat 38 Power Cat. His attention to detail, creative design ideas, and passion for yacht design result in yachts that are remarkable in both form and function.

Icarus Marine – Designer and builder of the foiling system for the Razor Cat 38 Power Cat

Icarus Marine was established in 2006 in Cape Town, South Africa as a Naval Architecture company specializing in high-speed craft design including hydrofoil-supported catamarans.  From its outset the company was internationally focused and has established long term relationships with shipyards and end-users around the world.  In 16+ years of operations, Icarus Marine has developed specialized knowledge in the design and construction of hydrofoil supported multihulls. The design and supply of turnkey hydrofoil supported vessels has become one of their core activities.

Contact for more information

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Performance & Luxury

The agile multi-tasker is the ideal performance cruiser for island hoppers yet fully capable of trans-oceanic adventure travel.

Our trend-setting circumnavigator ticks off big nautical miles yet remains small enough to easily maintain and operate short-handed.

With her heavily carbon reinforced structures and total epoxy construction she sails like a racer yet remains amazingly easy to operate and maintain.

The ultra high-performance voyager was designed for sailors with speed in their hearts but luxury on their minds.

Our long-distance, off-the-grid, expeditionary speedster was uniquely designed to carry significant cruising payloads without bogging down.

Our stunning new flagship is a ground-breaking super-high-performance luxury adventurer that sports both a forward cockpit and dual bulkhead helms.

performance sailing catamarans

Like many insurgent brands, Balance was born from our frustration. The catamaran market had simply become dominated by charter cats or racing cats, leaving few options for those seeking something in-between. We took our collective experience born from thousands of miles at sea to design and create truly balanced, handcrafted performance catamarans that would offer our customers years of blissful living and sailing.

performance sailing catamarans

Why Balance

Performance.

Our cats are beautiful on the dock and a joy to live in, but are most at home hitting 12 knots over open seas.

Craftsmanship

Every vessel is designed and built by a passionate team of craftspeople at our South Africa factories.

From bow to stern, we improve on the proven and innovate when necessary.

performance sailing catamarans

We are world-class sailors who saw a need for catamarans that merge open-water performance and modern livability.

performance sailing catamarans

We were born out of listening to sailors and continue to grow and innovate by being a part of the Balance community.

“On the water, Balance Catamarans achieve the elusive combination of excellent performance in a broad range of wind and sea conditions, on most points of sail, with good payload-carrying ability.”

performance sailing catamarans

“Truly impressive…With the scaled-down 442, Balance fills out the family offering with dimensions and a price point that make their designs more accessible to a broader swath of the cruising market. The result is a performance catamaran that’s perfectly positioned to appeal to an experienced sailing couple looking for quality, livability, speed, and savvy systems, all in a true 44-foot package that is a kick to sail.”

performance sailing catamarans

“The choice of materials is qualitative (the foam core and wood veneer for furniture), as well as the overall finish, in a word: impeccable.”

performance sailing catamarans

“I think the Balance 526 represents an important moment in the history of multihull design and evolution…there was something missing in the marketplace that Phil recognized: a high-performance voyaging cat that an experienced couple could take anywhere…finally, we have that a couple can really sail well.”

performance sailing catamarans

“Pretty as she is, every aspect of her design seems to have been refracted through a simplicity prism. Access for repairs is exceptional. The movement from helm to side decks and from side decks to foredecks is a breeze. The wiring and systems installations all reflect a commitment to functional excellence.”

performance sailing catamarans

“Several Balance 526 owners have reported 24-hour periods covering 260 miles or more. This is one very, very fast catamaran, laden or empty.”

News & Events

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Balance hits La Grande Motte Multihull Show

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Luxurious Look with Pippilotta

McConaghy 52 Catamaran Review

Performance sailing catamaran: why we like it.

This is one of the first performance sailing catamaran designs that we feel excited about. While we admire other performance cruisers like the Balance, Outremer and HH, we have never really wanted to own one. Why? Comfort! These performance cats are all fast, they are interesting and fun to sail but the living areas are smaller than we would like to live aboard on ( check out our post on the cruising catamaran performance debate ).

 The MC52 managed to overcome that hurdle for us and checks most of the boxes! 

All the features we love on our current boat, the Bali 5.4 , are incorporated in this design, only more sleek, high-tech with a more luxurious interior in classic European style. And it is a windspeed boat! Which means she will sail roughly the same speed as the true wind, something that is always a negative on heavy cruising boats! Not only does this cat have the open plan living area that the Bali is famous for in the cruising community, it also has a spacious forward cockpit and a flybridge.

The MC52 is a high-tech performance cruiser but it doesn’t skimp on modern luxury features and more specifically, comfort. Comfort for cruisers is a big deal and McConaghy did not disappoint. Mark Evans says: “While yacht design company, Kerr Yacht Design from Australia, is very performance oriented, my directive to them was to draw the queen beds and design the hulls around them. There was no compromise on that”.

The outcome was walk-around beds and a lot more spacious hulls than the average performance cruiser. While this is not exactly the be-all for a performance cruiser, it definitely indicates how Mark and his team approached the design. They wanted to build a high performance catamaran without compromising on comfort. Each feature is well thought out. The elegant clean lines of the hull and fly-bridge, apartment-style living areas and open and modern platform simultaneously enables more comfortable cruising and better performance; a feat not yet achieved in any other line of multihull.

Performance Catamarans Hull Layouts Comparisons: 3-Cabin Owners Version

“Our continual innovation and investment in new materials and technologies, has allowed us to firmly establish our position at the forefront of progressive high-performance yacht building. We are constantly innovating, testing and improving our techniques, applying composite technology to new fields as well as refining the production, mechanical properties, and minimizing weight of composites in existing applications.” says Mark.

Elegant & Luxurious Interiors: Fujiki / Walnut / Oak

Main deck saloon layout: some highlights.

  • Tenderlift: Light weight hydraulic lift platform with max capacity 450kg (1000 lbs) – Hydraulic swim platform and tenderlift with remote control, Seasmart cleats, safety locks, and four folding padeyes.
  • Forward cockpit with opening front door
  • Doors and windows: Very light and fully retractable glass doors aft – Frameless, bi-folding, tempered safety glass doors between saloon and aft deck. The main salon side windows are electric sliding windows
  • The spacious saloon offers a versatile living area that is exceptionally light, and there’s direct access to the aft deck via full height glass doors.  The galley is arranged open-plan and the arrangement is particularly well suited to socialising and family living.
  • Two seating areas – Main seating area in the salon with dining table and lounge seating forward starboard with coffee table
  • Aft deck seating with dining table
  • Spacious dedicated navigation station forward port
  • Custom finishes and fabric choices
  • Carbon rig, furler running rigging, hydraulic aft platform, hydraulic centreboards, LI batteries and more are included in the base boat, price at USD 1.65m. This is a highly spec’d yacht that performs.
  • Flybridge with dual steering
  • Hydrolic centerboards with three presets

Mc52 Cabin Layouts

Mc 52 flybridge.

The MC52 has dual helm positions on the flybridge, allowing for unencumbered sight lines and an elevated operational position. The sloping coachroof design gives a feeling of not being high up on a flybridge and allows for great visibility forward. All lines come back to the flybridge cockpit for ease of sail handling. Twin McConaghy carbon fibre steering wheel positions allows for good visibility when underway and docking. A Full solar array is available and fitted on the sloping coachroof as shown on the diagram. The cockpit has a spacious lounge area with wrap-around seating. A hardtop composite bimini is option.

Centerboards

Unlike the other performance cats with daggerboards, the MC series is the only brand of catamaran with articulating composite centerboards that are hydraulically controlled.  There are three positions – the up position, which is flush with the hull for minimum draft of 1.35m (4ft5in). A middle position with a draft of 1.95m (6ft5in) and fully deployed position with a draft of 3.75m (12ft). These are three preset positions which are contr0lled by the press of a button. The centerboards are under the sole in the cabins with a safety shear pins in case of grounding.

Lifting platform / tenderlift

Lifting platform with 1000 lbs capacity. This is highly sought after feature on catamarans and the MC 52 is the only performance cat with the platform.

Integrated anchoring system in carbon fiber longeron

Construction.

McConaghy were one of the first builders in the world to apply prepreg carbon to sailing boat construction in the mid 1970’s. Built from materials previously only used in aerospace applications, the first prepreg carbon 18ft skiff, built by McConaghy, was a revelation and would set a performanc benchmark for years to come. They have a 50 year history of excellence in race boat and mega yacht building. Check out the video of their facilities.

Like the other models in the series, the MC 52 is constructed using a controlled vacuum infusion process and pressed panels of E-glass, carbon composite and Corecell for lightweight strength and rigidity.

MC 52 catamaran Polars

Engine power report.

Calm Water Speed

The chart shows the “sensible” maximum flat water cruising speed (ahead of the steep section) to be in the region of 8.0 to 8.5kt. At full power, the engine can power the boat at circa 9.5kt. With a headwind of 15kt and a representative seaway margin of 10%, the maximum speed drops to 9.2ft.

Fuel consumption and range

Reviewing the Yanmar propeller curves (see below), we have interpo- lated RPM, and fuel consumption values for each CFD processed speed, to determine the range of the boat at each speed. The fuel volume assumed to be consumed is to be the total available (i.e. 230 litres per hull).

Performance Catamarans comparisons

A fully spec’d out MC 52 comes in at 16.4t which is the heaviest of the performance cats in this comparison. With a flybridge, a forward cockpit and very spacious salon and aft cockpit, the MC52 has by far the most usable living space of any of the boats compared here. And unlike most performance cats, the entire interior of the MC52 is fitted out to mega yacht standards with luxurious liners and wall panels which results in a very luxurious look and feel. With all that, McConaghy has managed to create a great balance between quality, comfort, livability and performance and still delivers a boat capable of sailing windspeed. It is quite an impressive feat!

Need More Info?

Contact us for more information, price and specifications.

Estelle Cockcroft

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hh44 sailing catamaran

Description

The first HH44 was launched in 2023 and premiered at the Cannes International Yachting Festival. This innovative design is the “baby” of the HH Catamarans range and has some interesting features such as her closed transoms, swing aft helms and a side boarding gate aft.

She’s a very pretty cat and will turn heads in the marina. This is HH’s first hybrid electric-powered catamaran although you can also opt for standard diesel power with shaft drives.

There are 2 versions, like much of the HH range. The Sports Cruising model: HH44-SC and the Ocean Cruising model: HH44-OC. The SC version is a “no-compromise-boat” with C-shaped carbon daggerboards, a carbon rig, a painted hull finish and 4,232 watts of solar with EcoDrive.

The OC saves you some money with the same hull, interior fit and finish quality as the sportier SC but with an aluminium mast, e-glass longeron, white gelcoat finish and mini-keels as standard.

Many of the ideas on this boat have been driven by a desire to maximise solar generation. There are 4,232W of peak solar on the cabin top alone with an option for more on the davits.

To maximise the solar, they have positioned the helms aft in a traditional sporty set-up. That way, there’s plenty of surface area up top to load on solar.

To help you stay protected in weather, these swing inboard, under the long coach-roof.

There are foldaway seats that tuck into the sides allowing you to either steer the boat from an outboard position with the wind in your hair and your sails’ tell-tales in full view.

Or swing the helms inboard and steer from the protected three-seat sofa on the aft beam.

To make it easy to board the boat in the marina, there is a side gate aft for when you come in along the dock.

HH44 LEDs

The HH44 has been designed to sail. The whole idea behind this catamaran is to get sailing in light winds (you should match wind speed on a beam reach) and to maximise your SOG over a wide range of conditions.

So she has a self-tacking staysail, a solent, a fractional reacher and a furling gennaker. The boom is very low over the coach-roof which keeps the centre of effort from the mainsail low.

There is a traveller aft on the coach-roof to manage your mainsail shape. The HH44 points well into the wind (45 TWA) thanks to her C-shaped daggerboards which provide a bit of lift at speed.

All the lines come back to the helm, so she is set up for short-handed sailing.

  • Light, rigid and fast, the HH44 is a great sailor
  • Swing aft helms give you flexibility while opening up the living space in the aft cockpit
  • The finish on this boat  is excellent
  • Those closed transoms create a safe enclosed living space. They’ll also save you money in the marina
  • A great looking boat that should hold her value well in the market due to the high demand
  • The EcoDrive strikes a great balance between electric motoring with back-up diesels for safety
  • With those aft helms, visibility is reduced towards the opposite bow, although the sight lines through the salon windows is good.
  • This is not a cheap yacht
  • The forward cabin is cosy. There is an option for a Pullman berth here (or convert to a workspace)
  • The bow lockers seem small, although they are deep

Light Construction

Carbon and epoxy have been used to build as strong and stiff a yacht as possible while minimising the weight.

All of the lines run under the decks, so you have clear walkways around the boat. Stanchions are 900mm tall and a continuous, unbroken toe rail runs the length of the deck with all hull and deck joints fused and hidden.

Living Space

Moving inside, you’ll notice that the aft cockpit and salon forms one fully protected space with a large sofa on the aft beam and her closed transoms make this a safe family boat.

The angular cabin has two large, forward-facing windows that open fully from the the generously sized (187 sq ft or 17.4m2) salon. The standing height is over 2m (6’6”) high throughout.

One of the things that sets the HH44 apart from her competition is the quality of the finish on this semi-custom yacht.  She has foam core furniture and exceptional joinery throughout, and Bosch electric appliances as standard.

There are two options for a BBQ, one which replaces the aft sofa with a large LPG BBQ & Dive Tank station or you can mount an LPG Grill in the aft fishing rod holder, keeping the aft sofa. There is an outlet on the aft beam so you can run an electric BBQ.

In the salon, there is an L-shaped sofa with a table forward to starboard and a large nav station/workstation to port.

Tuck yourself into the U-shaped galley behind the nav station or pull out some cold ones from the fridge on the starboard side. The ventilation at anchor is excellent with those huge forward windows.

HH44 cat

The starboard hull is the owner’s side and consists of the master cabin aft and a walk-in shower and head forward. The finish has an Italian feel to it and it is very light down here with a large window aft in the owner’s cabin.

This is a 44 foot performance cat, so there is not as much room down her as you’d find in a cruising cat, but she has ample space in the aft cabin and the storage is well organised.

HH offers three different forward cabin combinations. One is the standard layout with a single berth.

The second has a Pullman berth above the standard bed that folds away when not needed.

A third option does away with the beds and replaces them with a large work bench with shelves (for pantry storage or tools) and an extra Fridge/Freezer unit.

If you go for the option with the EcoDrive, the House Bank is powerful enough to run the A/C overnight without the need to run a generator. There is enough power to run the A/C in the master cabin for over three days.

EcoDrive, her Electric/Diesel Parallel Hybrid System The HH44 was designed from scratch to work with a parallel electric/diesel hybrid, with a minimum of 4,232W of peak solar array on the cabin top and hydro-regeneration while sailing.

EcoDrive gives you silent fume-free motoring at 7.5kts, fast torque for manoeuvring, and hydro-regeneration while sailing. Plus you have parallel, trusty diesel engines for safety.

A diesel engine is paired with a large electric motor, much like an alternator sits on a traditional diesel engine. A belt links the two units and a camshaft allows you to flip between the two power systems, giving you good redundancy. And remember, you have 2 of these systems on board!

The system is designed to offer from 1.5 to 3 hours of electric propulsion: more than enough time to exit the marina or anchorage and hoist the sails.

This boat has been designed to get sailing in light winds which ultimately is the key to an eco-friendly sailing yacht. And you will be recharging your batteries as you sail.

You can also fit the HH44 with traditional standalone diesel engines with shaft drives.

The HH44 is an innovative design that will appeal to sailors setting out across long distances who want to sail more and beat well to windward when needed. This yacht is in a different price league to something like an Aventura 37 of course, but there are two options here: the Sports Cruising and the Ocean Cruising models.

She’s a comfortable boat, although there is a trade-off on space down below particularly in the forward cabins.

With the EcoDrive option and a bow locker full of sails, you’ll be able to minimise your diesel usage on this boat while crossing oceans safely and quickly.

What is the price of an HH44? How much do they cost? The sportier HH44-SC starts at $1,325,000. Meanwhile the HH44-OC version starts at $957,000 USD. The total cost will vary depending on your options, but you should budget an additional $300k, perhaps more for the SC.

How much solar is there on the HH44? The HH44 has a generous 4,232W of peak solar as standard on the SC on the cabin top. You can fit 1,200W watts over the Davits, but this comes with a weight penalty.

What is the length of the boat with transoms up? With the transoms up, the LOA from davits to Bow Sprit is 14.23m (46.68 feet), so fine for a 15m berth.

What size tender can you carry? The optimum sized tender is 3-3.5m (10-11 foot). The davits are carbon fibre and will soak up a high load.

Technical Specification

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Custom design and construction of sturdy sailing and motor catamarans from certified aluminium. Homogeneous, torsionally rigid and extremely strong structure, without annoying creaking noises. Good sailing characteristics for worldwide ocean cruises. 55 - 78 ft., made in Holland.

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between a Sailboat or Catamaran for Your Sailing Adventures

C hoosing between a sailboat and a catamaran for your sailing adventures is a significant decision that depends on various factors, including your sailing preferences, experience level, budget, and intended use. Here's an ultimate guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Sailing Experience:

  • Sailboats: Typically require more skill and experience to handle, especially in adverse weather conditions. Ideal for sailors who enjoy the traditional feel of sailing and are willing to invest time in learning and mastering the art.
  • Catamarans: Easier to handle, making them suitable for beginners. The dual-hull design provides stability, reducing the learning curve for those new to sailing.

2. Space and Comfort:

  • Sailboats: Generally have a narrower beam and less living space. However, some sailboats may offer comfortable cabins and amenities.
  • Catamarans: Wider beam creates more living space. Catamarans often have multiple cabins, spacious saloons, and expansive deck areas, providing a more comfortable living experience.

3. Stability:

  • Sailboats: Monohulls can heel (lean) while sailing, which some sailors enjoy for the thrill but can be discomforting for others.
  • Catamarans: Greater stability due to the dual hulls, providing a more level sailing experience. Reduced heeling makes catamarans suitable for those prone to seasickness.

4. Performance:

  • Sailboats: Known for their upwind performance and ability to sail close to the wind. Some sailors appreciate the challenge of optimizing sail trim for efficiency.
  • Catamarans: Faster on a reach and downwind due to their wide beam. However, they may not point as high into the wind as monohulls.
  • Sailboats: Typically have a deeper draft, limiting access to shallow anchorages and requiring deeper marina berths.
  • Catamarans: Shallow draft allows access to shallower waters and secluded anchorages, providing more flexibility in cruising destinations.
  • Sailboats: Generally more affordable upfront, with a wide range of options available to fit different budgets.
  • Catamarans: Often more expensive upfront due to their size and design. However, maintenance costs may be comparable or even lower in some cases.

7. Mooring and Docking:

  • Sailboats: Easier to find slips and moorings in marinas designed for monohulls.
  • Catamarans: Require wider slips and may have limited availability in certain marinas, especially in crowded anchorages.

8. Intended Use:

  • Sailboats: Ideal for traditional sailors who enjoy the art of sailing, racing enthusiasts, or those on a tighter budget.
  • Catamarans: Suited for those prioritizing comfort, stability, and spacious living areas, especially for long-term cruising and chartering.

9. Resale Value:

  • Sailboats: Generally have a more established resale market, with a wider range of buyers.
  • Catamarans: Growing in popularity, and well-maintained catamarans often retain their value.

10. Personal Preference:

  • Consider your personal preferences, the type of sailing you plan to do, and the kind of lifestyle you want aboard your vessel.

In conclusion, both sailboats and catamarans have their advantages and disadvantages. Your decision should be based on your individual preferences, experience level, budget, and intended use. If possible, charter both types of vessels to experience firsthand how they handle and to help make a more informed decision based on your own preferences and needs.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between a Sailboat or Catamaran for Your Sailing Adventures appeared first on Things That Make People Go Aww .

Choosing between a sailboat and a catamaran for your sailing adventures is a significant decision that depends on various factors, including your sailing preferences, experience level, budget, and intended use. Here's an ultimate guide to help you make an informed decision: 1. Sailing Experience: 2. Space and Comfort: 3. Stability: 4. Performance: 5. Draft: 6....

Dyna-Ski Boats custom builds outboard powered water ski boats for recreational skiers and show ski clubs. We have customers all over the world including Malaysia, the Caribbean, Moscow, Russia, the Cayman Islands and Canada. This blog is used to keep readers informed about what is going on at Dyna-Ski and answers questions that are frequently asked. You can also visit www.dyna-ski.com for more information about our boats. Contact Dyna-Ski at [email protected] or call 715-854-7501.

Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Update on things and how to buy a dyna-ski boat, no comments:, post a comment.

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COMMENTS

  1. 6 Best Performance Cruising Catamarans (Buyer's Guide)

    The Outremer 4x is a stable and comfortable high-speeding cruising catamaran that performs ocean crossings and confronts any weather with remarkable ease. Named the European Boat of the Year in 2017, this 48-foot (14.6 m) bluewater cruiser sails faster than wind speed and attains maximum cruising speeds of 20 knots.. The 4x is an upgrade of the extremely popular Outremer 45, thus retaining ...

  2. 2022 Boat of the Year: Best Performance Catamaran

    With a powerful, versatile sail plan—as well as light, solid construction and go-fast daggerboards—the Balance 482 is a go-anywhere cat that puts a premium on performing, which made it the perfect choice as Best Performance Catamaran in the 2022 Boat of the Year contest.

  3. HH Catamarans

    Nov 20, 2023. HH44 Awarded Breakthrough Launch of the Year. Nov 16, 2023. HH 44SC: SAIL Magazine Top 10 Best Boats Nominee. Nov 14, 2023. Explore HH Catamarans, the premier builder of luxury performance cruising catamarans. Discover award-winning designs and innovative carbon construction.

  4. Performance Catamaran Comparisons

    Here is another very interesting analysis Sailing into Freedom. The top 10 performance catamarans - Dazcat 1495, ORC 50, Odisea 48, Balance 526, Outremer 45, Outremer 51, Catana OC, HH 50, OC 50, Balance 482, HH44, Seawind 1370, Seawind 1600, Slyder 49, Privilege, Windelo 50. We would love for everyone to join the discussion.

  5. 20 Performance Cruising Catamaran Reviews

    The best performance cruising catamarans are the Manta 42, Dolphin 42, Leopard 48, and Fountaine Pajot Elba 45. The McConaghy MC50, Privilege 435, and Nautitech 441 are also impressive models. The best offer optimal performance and can sail a 250-mile voyage easily.

  6. The Top 10 Performance Cruising Catamarans

    The top 10 performance catamarans - Dazcat 1495, ORC 50, Odisea 48, Balance 526, Outremer 45, Outremer 51, Catana OC, HH 50, OC 50, Balance 482, HH44, Seawin...

  7. 12 Best Catamaran Sailboats

    Gunboat 62. catamarancentral. An original performance catamaran cruiser from the iconic Gunboat manufacturer, the Gunboat 62 has truly cemented its place as one of the best catamaran sailboats to ever grace the oceans. Honestly speaking, this cat-inspired a whole range of other incredible boats including HH66 Catamaran and the Balance 526.

  8. Performance cruisers: the best new catamarans for racing and fast

    Catamaran sailing; Bluewater sailing techniques; ... Upwind performance is boosted by 3.5m-deep hydraulic daggerboards in each hull, which include a fail-safe in the event of underwater collision.

  9. The Cruising Catamaran Performance Debate

    What one should also consider is that when cruising is that a catamaran's performance will be dictated by sea state as well as wind speed and direction. In light winds, there will probably be a screecher or asymmetrical spinnaker deployed and in strong winds the sails will probably be reefed. This means that in cruising mode, most sail plans ...

  10. Razor Cat

    The Razor Cat 38 is your "escape pod" for adventure cruising. Providing performance, efficiency, and comfort on the water through the unique features and well thought design. The foil system increases efficiency by up to 40% over non-foiling boats, while improving performance and ride comfort. With 400 gallons of fuel aboard you have a 500 ...

  11. Performance Cruising Cats Set New Standards in Sailing Speed

    The goal is speed, performance and offshore comfort, both in the strong stuff and, more importantly, in whispering airs that park-up monohulls. "A good performance catamaran can sail 1.2 to 1.5 times faster than windspeed in some conditions, meaning less time motoring and more time sailing," says Greg Young, designer of the TAG 60.

  12. Home

    From bow to stern, we improve on the proven and innovate when necessary. "On the water, Balance Catamarans achieve the elusive combination of excellent performance in a broad range of wind and sea conditions, on most points of sail, with good payload-carrying ability.". "Truly impressive…With the scaled-down 442, Balance fills out the ...

  13. Performance Catamarans

    Performance. Cats. Fast, light and comfortable: these are ocean crossing performance cruisers. In this section you will find the speed merchants of the multihull world, with a collection of Gunboat Catamarans plus Kinetic, Outremer, Ocean Explorer, Marsaudon Composites and HH setting the pace. Then there are those performance boats that strike ...

  14. McConaghy 52 Catamaran Review

    Performance Catamarans comparisons. A fully spec'd out MC 52 comes in at 16.4t which is the heaviest of the performance cats in this comparison. With a flybridge, a forward cockpit and very spacious salon and aft cockpit, the MC52 has by far the most usable living space of any of the boats compared here.

  15. Kinetic Catamarans

    Luxury All Carbon Performance Cruiser Catamarans. The KC62 and KC54 are 100% carbon fiber and optimized for weight and performance whilst maximizing the space and cruising comforts that catamarans provide. The result is a world-class, agile and fast, yet spacious and comfortable catamaran giving you more sailing and cruising enjoyment.

  16. Catamarans

    Catamarans are vessels (power or sail) with two parallel hulls of equal size. A catamaran gets its stability from a wide beam (some cats like Looping and the old Lagoons accentuate this). In general, the ratio of length to beam is around 2:1. Some yachts are more narrow (e.g. the Outremer 51) and some are wider (such as the Nautitech 40).

  17. HH44 Performance Sailing Catamaran Review

    Sailing. The HH44 has been designed to sail. The whole idea behind this catamaran is to get sailing in light winds (you should match wind speed on a beam reach) and to maximise your SOG over a wide range of conditions. So she has a self-tacking staysail, a solent, a fractional reacher and a furling gennaker.

  18. CATAMARIS®

    Performance Catamarans Fast sailing blue water sailing and motor catamarans from 58 to 105 ft, custom designed by Jean-Jacques Coste, made in Europe according to customer's requirements. Dynamic, moderate or classic: Due to "full-custom" construction, there are no restrictions in the fulfilment of your demands. ...

  19. Sail Catamaran boats for sale

    Built by a wide variety of yacht makers, there are currently 1,800 catamaran yachts for sale on YachtWorld, with 438 new vessels for sale, and 1,362 used and custom yachts listed. These vessels are all listed by professional yacht brokerages and new boat dealers, mainly in the following countries: United States, France, Croatia, Italy and Greece.

  20. The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between a Sailboat or Catamaran ...

    Space and Comfort: 3. Stability: 4. Performance: 5. Draft: 6.... Nancy Reyes ... Choosing between a sailboat and a catamaran for your sailing adventures is a significant decision that depends on ...

  21. Dyna-Ski Boats

    This blog is used to keep readers informed about what is going on at Dyna-Ski and answers questions that are frequently asked. You can also visit www.dyna-ski.com for more information about our boats. Contact Dyna-Ski at [email protected] or call 715-854-7501.

  22. 14 Night Imperial Russia Cruise on Scenic Tsar from Moscow sailing

    See details and pricing for the Scenic Tsar 14 Night Imperial Russia Cruise sailing September 26, 2021 from Moscow. Book Scenic Cruises online or call 1-800-427-8473 - iCruise.com

  23. My photos from yesterday Carter 30 association cup. Moscow

    221K subscribers in the sailing community. /r/Sailing is a place to ask about, share, show, and enjoy all about sailing, sail boat racing, and…

  24. Dyna-Ski Boats: Update on things and how to buy a Dyna-Ski Boat

    This blog is used to keep readers informed about what is going on at Dyna-Ski and answers questions that are frequently asked. You can also visit www.dyna-ski.com for more information about our boats. Contact Dyna-Ski at [email protected] or call 715-854-7501.