single engine catamaran boats

Engine Innovation

Aspens make the most of engines, no matter what configuration.

Aspens run on a single diesel engine or two mismatched outboards, depending on the model chosen. Both configurations have their advantages, depending on the boating experience you’re after.

Single-Diesel Power Drives

The single diesel power proa hull carries many advantages in her design. While identical in profile, the two hulls are very different in plan view, with one hull 35 percent thinner than the other. Additionally, the design utilizes only one engine, shaft, prop, and keel. The design’s asymmetrical hulls are shaped to compensate for the engine torque. Since both forces are proportional to speed and thrust, the boat runs straight. We call this the SeaGlider system.

The benefits of the SeaGlider technology are significant. While the thinner proa hull is only 35 percent thinner, its actual drag is approximately 50 percent less. This fluid-dynamic relationship is best summed up as “a little thinner equals a lot less energy.” This hull also has none of the typical, twin-engine appendage drag seen on most boats. Drive gear such as the keel, shaft, rudder, and prop typically add another 20-percent drag.

Beyond this, the single engine design saves dramatically on machinery weight, which in turn saves on the required structure component sizes, plus additional necessary fuel and the corresponding weight of that load. All these savings reduce the boat’s weight by approximately 40 percent. The result of less weight is much less drag.

Aspen offers boaters a perfect haven due to its balance of environmental and performance efficiencies in combination with its roomy layout and exceptional comfort. The aspen hull and its many benefits are all rooted in solid engineering principles and creative innovation.

Case Study: The Aspen C120 Runs Straight with Two Hulls and One Engine

The C120 uses Aspen’s patented award-winning hull design for ideal performance with a state-of-the-art Volvo Penta D6 diesel. Design cruise speeds are 16 to 18 knots with a top speed of 20 to 23 knots, depending on the horsepower (370 horsepower or 435 horsepower). Fuel economy with the single 435-horsepower diesel is 10 gph at 16 knots; that’s 50 to 60 percent lower fuel burn than competitive boats. Your fun cruising range just doubled in a day!

Outboard Power Like No Other Boat

At Aspen we understand that many boaters today are looking for outboard power, and we’ve received a lot of input from our owners and prospective buyers. Over the years buyers have said they like what we do in terms of efficiency, stability, cabin space, and style, but wanted the versatility outboards provide. Some needed to cut across sandbars and draft was an issue. Others travel to areas where it is easier to service outboards, or head far offshore and prefer the redundancy and peace of mind twin engines provide. Some buyers just prefer outboards: Having grown up with them, they understand them better.

Aspen’s Founder and President Larry Graf noticed his earlier-designed twin-outboard catamarans could successfully run off a single engine with slight steering corrections. And he has always understood the efficiency, speed, and performance outboards can achieve. With the technological developments that outboards have undergone in the last decade, they are cleaner, quieter, and more fuel efficient than ever. Larry set out to integrate outboard power into his patented proa design to provide added benefits and efficiency.

Larry saw an opportunity to incorporate outboard power to create even more of an advantage for Aspen owners. He tested our asymmetrical hulls with a single engine like on our inboard boats and they ran well. Since many outboard fishermen would also want to troll, he then experimented with adding a smaller trolling motor to the other hull. At first he thought that the trolling motor would be tilted up when running at speed but he soon found that the smaller outboard added appendage drag that helped with tracking, largely because the outboard-powered hulls lacked the keel of the inboard boats. He soon realized that if you are going to have both engines in the water you might as well power them both while running. Dialing in the size and power of the engines as well as the hull shape he came up with the optimal running setup and the first asymmetrical outboard-powered catamaran was born.

As with any new model or change, we do extensive testing and sea-trialing. The results of this power package were surprisingly good. The outboard model topped out at speeds that were 20 percent faster than the diesel inboard version of the same boat. We categorize the acceleration as startling, and we’ll leave it at that. These outboards are a lot different than those that many of us used to know: They’re actually quieter at cruising speed than the inboard diesel. With power tilt, we can reduce the draft of the boat to 22 inches. On one engine she’ll run at 8 knots, and single-engine operation also can reduce trolling speed to less than 1.8 knots.

While our outboard-powered boats have some advantages over the diesel-powered boats, there are some differences to consider. For example, a boat powered by the two outboards will burn 15 percent more fuel than the single-diesel model. Outboards will not last as long as a robust diesel engine, but repowering is easier. Storing a dinghy is a little trickier with outboards, but we have designed a patent-pending davit system that is fast and easy to use.

Outboard power is very popular today and many owners are willing to sacrifice some fuel efficiency and engine longevity for faster top-end speeds and other advantages. Aspen delivers top efficiency in their outboard models compared to other outboard-driven boats in their size and class and continues to offer a full line of diesel inboards too.

Case Study: The Aspen C107 Runs Straight with Two Outboards of Different Horsepower

Our Aspen C107 is optimally paired with 200- and 70-horsepower outboards. Together they provide a nice balance for our Power Proa hull. The engines run perfectly in unison or individually. They both are rated for the same maximum rpm range of 5,000 to 6,000, have the same lower-unit gear ratio, and use similarly pitched props. The motors deliver thrust proportional to their horsepower at the same rpm. Since the port hull is 35 percent narrower, it takes about 50 percent less energy to slip through the water. We changed the starboard hull so it no longer has the keel form and prop pocket. The hull shape at the bow still lets the boat run in balance: No helm correction is needed, and hands-free tracking is on par with our inboard design.

Patent No. US 8,109,221 B2

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Catamaran With Motor? 8 Types Explained (For Beginners)

The catamaran’s design reduces the waves and wind’s effects, allowing the boat to travel farther and faster compared to monohulls of comparable sizes.

Table of Contents

However, the wind and waves are unpredictable, so catamarans use motors as either backup or the main propulsion based on their construction.

In this article, we provide all the answers concerning questions about the propulsion systems available to catamarans:

Do Catamarans Have Motors?

Catamarans, including power and sail types, have motors and other mechanized propulsion systems. Except for small cats used in coastal waters, most large catamarans come with different engine combinations even if they have sails.

Do Catamarans Have One or Two Motors?

Catamarans can have two engines because they have two hulls.

This makes them highly maneuverable while underway and makes handling in shallow and tight waters a breeze.

However, many large cats use only one engine. With two engines, you have more maneuverability over the boat, but one engine may increase the speed and fuel efficiency since it reduces weight.

One of the best combinations in a cat is to pair two engines with counter-rotating propellers. The level of control this configuration provides in the water, especially at the marina, is mind-blowing.

Whether you are backing up or mooring, you can adjust the two engines independently to achieve many of the things monohulls find difficult.

So, what propulsion systems are available to catamarans?

Whether you are looking to buy a power cat or sail cat, both feature engines. There is a wide range of power options for different uses based on your budget, preference, and craft design.

8 Types of Motors Used in Catamarans:

1) single outboard.

You will find this in small-sized catamarans of about 25 feet and below.

While single outboards cut cost and weigh less, they can be difficult to steer under power except when you use the motor to turn.

This is because the motor needs the water to flow over the rudders to turn the boat.

Except for owning a small catamaran, a single outboard is not the most efficient propulsion system for this watercraft.

2) Two Outboards

Like monohulls, you can use two outboards on a catamaran.

Smaller cats such as the Seawind 1000 and Gemini 32 can be fitted with two outboards for improved maneuverability in tight quarters and redundancy.

This setup is great for small cruising catamarans because it is far lighter than two large diesel engines, allowing you to store more essentials on the boat.

Catamarans may be faster than monohulls, but their speed decreases with the load they have to bear, so cat owners try to keep their boats as light as possible. Another benefit of this configuration is that two outboards are more affordable compared to diesel engines.

Plus, you can run on one engine if one dies on you while on the water.

However, this arrangement has some serious shortcomings.

Outboards are not the best means of propulsion on the open seas. Because of their inherent weakness, outboards don’t last long, and their reliability decreases with increased exposure to the harsh saltwater environment.

The design of outboards makes them less suitable for choppy waters.

While you can use outboards in twin configurations for catamarans, they perform best on smaller monohull watercraft.

3) Single Diesel

This is common in custom catamarans.

It comprises a single diesel engine in one hull, which reduces weight and makes it more affordable.

However, this configuration can make turning in tight quarters almost nightmarish except for highly skilled skippers.

The boat will turn easily to the side opposite the engine location. For example, the boat will turn with little starboard issues if the engine is in the port hull.

However, you may require several boat lengths to maneuver it to port.

For best results, plan your turns well in advance and do a lot of practice to perfect docking in tight quarters to avoid costly mistakes.

4) Single Diesel Engine with Retractable External Drive

This combination is popular with Prout catamarans, using a Sonic Drive-by Sillette.

It comprises a cockpit diesel engine paired with a steerable external motor.

The arrangement reduces weight and does not create drag when the drive leg is out of the water.

However, the reverse lock mechanism may not work sometimes. Also, the steering yoke and bellows may not work properly when you need them.

This setup is best for smaller boats where two engines’ thrust will be overkill, and they help to save cost and weight.

If your catamaran is on the heavier side, you want to go for something sturdier and more powerful.

A 32 feet Gemini catamaran will make an excellent candidate for this arrangement as the boat can use a single-engine with no problems.

5) Diesel with an Outboard

People who use this configuration do so to save cost and counterbalance the single diesel engine’s powerful thrust.

The auxiliary could be smaller petrol or electric-powered outboard motor.

When you are on the open seas, the diesel gives you enough propulsion during calm weather when you can’t use the sails. The outboard helps in shallow waters, although it is often useless on the high seas, especially during turbulent weather.

The smaller outboard also provides less turning power when it’s very windy than running two powerful diesel engines.

You save space, reduce weight, and keep a few extra thousands of dollars in your bank account.

6) Twin Diesel Engines

For larger catamarans, especially cruising types capable of transatlantic and transpacific voyages, the standard propulsion comes from two large diesel engines.

Each engine is housed in one hull, providing exceptional longevity, fuel economy, and incredible amounts of horsepower to help you through the rough seas in the shortest time possible.

This combination is excellent for redundancy, even though most catamarans can run efficiently on one engine most of the time.

The downside of having two diesel engines is weight, cost, and maintenance.

Diesel engines, compelling models that produce upwards of 40-45 horsepower, can set you back by tens of thousands of dollars. But they will deliver over 8000 hours of work-life easily.

In terms of reliability, durability, longevity, and performance, nothing trumps diesel engines in the marine industry.

Diesel engines are safer to operate as they do not have the same explosion and fire danger as petrol or gas engines. They are easier to maintain and simpler to operate.

Plus, they are the most mature propulsion system in the seafaring world.

However, diesel engines are also heavier and will take up more hull space.

That means less space to store your gear, but it’s a worthy sacrifice considering the capabilities diesel engines offer your boat. Diesel boats not only drive your propeller but can also provide the energy to run every electrical system on board, including navigational equipment, cooking, air conditioning, entertainment, among others.

7) Hydraulic Propulsion

Some catamarans use hydraulic propulsion systems, although these are not popular.

Hydraulic systems are better suited to terrestrial applications as they are prone to many problems that can complicate matters for you while underway:

• One , hydraulics generate additional heat, which makes them inefficient.
• Second , they can be uncomfortably noisy, making socialization difficult and defeating the whole purpose of leaving city life’s buzz.
• Third , hydraulic systems are prone to leakages, which increase their running cost and harm the environment.

These factors make hydraulics less efficient compared to diesel and petrol engines.

8) Electric Hybrid Systems

This propulsion system comprises a diesel engine and an electric motor.

The main issue with this configuration is the complexity of the systems and their overall lower efficiency.

Other Propulsion Systems:

As technology advances, sailors and marine engineering experts continue to find new and better ways to improve seafaring while reducing the planet’s carbon footprint.

This has led to solar, wind turbine, water, and pure electric motor propulsion systems.

For example, the Solarwave Sailor 64 is a solar hybrid-powered catamaran with an installed capacity to generate 15KW, enough to power everything on board the boat.

Solar and electric systems are silent and clean. However, they are insanely expensive and not as reliable as diesel and petrol engines. Also, they require banks of batteries, which add a lot of weight to the cat.

Final Words

Catamarans may look out of place, but many of these vessels offer more flexibility regarding power options.

You can choose from outboards, inboard diesel engines, and even go for the newer electric or solar-powered models.

However, the diesel engine remains the best power system available today for catamarans and other boats.

For reliable performance and mind-blowing thrust capabilities, experienced sailors depend on the time-tested diesel engine.

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ArrowCat Power Catamarans Unmatched Craftsmanship Meets Unyielding Spirit

Experience the thrill of the open water with unparalleled comfort and tailored craftsmanship. Whether you are cruising the coastlines or anchored in serene bays, your ArrowCat power catamaran is your gateway to a life of adventure and tranquility.

Introducing Our Newest Addition, The 20' Power Cat Center Console Model

We intentionally designed this model to be simple and plain – simple to take the boat out, simple to use and to maintain, plain by allowing you the flexibility to customize it according to your preferences.

ArrowCat 20cc

This 20-foot center console is built with strength and purpose, designed for ease and simplicity. Effortlessly take it out on the water, and enjoy straightforward maintenance and operation. Its clean, adaptable design allows for extensive customization, whether on your own or through a dealer.

Fully Planing Hull Design LOA: 19′ 4″ / 5.89 meters Beam: 8′ 4″ / 2.54 meters Draft: 10″ / 0.254 meters

Explore Our 32' and 42' Signature Cabin Models

Perfect for inshore and offshore cruising, long distance and overnight trips, cold off seasons and hot boating seasons, and much more. The ArrowCat 32-foot and 42-foot models provide an exciting and versatile experience on the water. Explore to see which one could best suit your boating lifestyle.

ArrowCat 320

Merging express cruiser elegance with catamaran stability, the ArrowCat 320 Coupe features a planing hull design for smooth, swift rides. Powered by twin outboard motors, it promises dynamic performance and exhilarating adventures on every voyage.

Standard Layout: 2 Cabins/ 1 Wet Head Optional Tower Option LOA: 31′ 2″ / 9.5 meters Beam: 10’ / 3.05 meters Draft: 20″ / 0.508 meters

ArrowCat 420 Coupe

The ArrowCat 420 Coupe combines the luxury of an express cruiser yacht with the stability of a catamaran hull. Designed with a planing hull for agile, efficient navigation and powered by twin outboard motors, it delivers unmatched performance for your ocean adventures.

Standard Layout: 2 Cabins/ 1 Full Head LOA: 41′ 9″ / 12.73 meters Beam: 14′ 9″ / 4.50 meters Draft: 18″ / 0.46 meters

ArrowCat 420 Flybridge

 This luxury express cruiser yacht boasts a catamaran hull for superior stability and a planing hull design that ensures efficient, agile handling. Powered by twin outboard motors, it offers robust performance. The addition of a flybridge enhances your view and enjoyment, making every journey unforgettable.

Standard Layout: 2 Cabins/ 1 Full Head LOA: 41′ 9″ / 12.73 meters Beam: 14′ 9″ / 4.50 meters Draft: 20″ / 0.51 meters

Our Unique Design

Enjoy your boat year-round and stay warm and dry during cooler weather or overnight trips, while also having a comfortable and private space to retreat for whenever you need a break. Here are a few reasons why an ArrowCat power cat is an excellent boat to consider.

Catamarans have two hulls, which provide more stability in the water. They are less likely to roll or pitch, which means they offer a more comfortable ride, especially in rough conditions and for people who are prone to seasickness.

Power catamarans are typically more fuel-efficient than monohull boats of the same size. It requires less energy and yields more performance per HP. The two hulls create little to no drag or resistance to get on plane, resulting in greater fuel economy. Allowing for longer journeys with fewer refueling stops. 

Power catamarans have a shallow draft which means they can navigate diverse cruising grounds – beaches, islands, rivers, channels, and coastal areas with limited water depth. 

Express Cruiser

Cabin boats are designed with comfortable sleeping quarters and living spaces. They feature a sleeping space with a bed, a galley with a stove, sink, and refrigerator, and a head with a shower and toilet.

Cabin boats provide protection from the elements, such as wind, sun, and rain. This allows for comfortable cruising in a variety of weather conditions, as well as providing a haven during storms

Express cruisers are designed for efficient and fast navigation, offering higher speeds compared to traditional cruising boats. They usually have powerful engines that enable them to cover long distances quickly, making them ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.

Powered By Outboard Motors

Outboard motors can provide excellent performance and speed. They can often reach higher speeds than inboard motors of the same horsepower.

Outboard motors have a simple and standard design and are relatively easy to install, they do not require additional components such as a transmission, propeller shaft, couplings, and struts, that inboard engines do. They are easily assessable and cost less to maintain than inboard motors because they are mounted outside at the rear of the boat.

Outboard motors are often designed with features that make them easy to maneuver. For example, they can be tilted or rotated to provide precise control and handling in tight spaces and shallower waters.

About ArrowCat

Crafting Versatility and Adventure on the Water Since 2008

At ArrowCat, we believe in creating boats that are ready for anything. Our American-owned company builds versatile, multi-functional catamarans designed not just for a specific activity, but for a lifestyle that demands freedom and reliability. Whether you’re cruising, fishing, or exploring, our boats deliver superior performance in all conditions.

Trusted by seasoned mariners across coastal and saltwater environments, ArrowCat power catamarans embody the spirit of adventure and the promise of quality.

Learn More About Us

Experience A Smooth, Fast, And Stable Ride

Discover the unparalleled stability and speed of an ArrowCat power catamaran. Connect with our experts to schedule your sea trial today and experience the thrill firsthand.

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2023 Boat Buyers Guide: Catamarans

• By Karl Anderson
• December 27, 2022

The popularity of the multihull (aka catamaran or cat) fishing boats has never been greater, as more and more boatbuilders enter this growing segment of the market. The inherent stability of the catamaran design rolls less with the seas, making fishing offshore less tiresome and more comfortable. Available from 20 to 48 feet, catamarans typically offer a large fishing platform with generous storage and fishing amenities. They are available in a wide variety of deck layouts, including center-consoles, dual-consoles, and even pilothouse and express variants.

Big Picture

The large deck area of a catamaran enables many large underdeck storage lockers and insulated fish boxes in the sponsons. This gives anglers ample room for gear and the day’s catch. The catamaran’s stability, fishability, and smooth ride in rough seas make it attractive to anglers as well as day-cruisers. A center-console version adds 360 degrees of angler access to the rail. With the dual-console design, generous seating behind a beam-to-beam windshield makes for a great family fishing-friendly setup.

Live bait is one of the most popular types of fishing in virtually every coastal zone. To do it successfully requires optimal water capacity and proper flow. The minimum size of the outflow water plumbing should be twice the size of the inflow. The plumbing should have a drain at the bottom to shed scales at the end of the day, as well as a drain at the top of the well to adjust capacity and allow overflow. Above-deck transom-mounted wells should fully flood to the lids when running to keep baits from getting beat up. 

Tip: A sump box with multiple pumps in case a pump fails is the best setup for first-rate livewells. Conveniently located inflow and outflow valves make it easy to optimize the flow without tiring your bait from swimming too much in the well. 

Rod Storage

Having enough rod holders is essential to be successful for opportunity fishing. Look for vertical rod storage along the console and across the back of the T-top. Many models also have rod holders along the outboard transom wall. Having plenty of gunwale rod holders for drift- and kite-fishing is helpful. 

Tip: Placing adjustable swivel rod holders by Gemlux makes deep-dropping, lure-fishing and drifting even easier because they allow your rods to face the direction the baits are fishing, yet they can be swiveled back to keep rods from sticking out of the boat while running and docking. 

Manufacturers often offer multiple choices for horsepower, but whatever the choice, the engines must come in pairs. For example, you might order twin outboards (one for each sponson) or four outboards (two for each sponson), but single- or triple-outboard configurations are not common on a cat. Optimal selection should be made based on user load, weight of the boat, ride comfort , performance desires, and best case for resale. It’s a rare day when you can run wide open, but having more horsepower gives better torque at slower speeds and thus better control. Running larger engines slower gives better fuel efficiency too.

Tip: When possible, choose the highest horsepower offered because it typically leads to a better resale value with a shorter sales cycle. 

Power steering from engine manufacturer Optimus or SeaStar is essential with the higher horsepower required for larger boats, and it makes installing and operating the upper station in a tower far more practical and comfortable.

With the power demands of electronics, livewell pumps, stereo amps and more, it is wise to have at least two house batteries, and for larger boats, a third or fourth with a multibank charger for dockside. Each engine should have its own dedicated battery as well. 

Electronics

Typically choosing the largest screen or multiple screens that will fit on the console is best-case scenario for ease of use, ergonomics, and visibility. VHF radios, stereo controller, and equipment switches for lighting, pumps, and accessories should all be integrated with greatest visibility and ease of operator reach. 

A Tale of Two Hulls 

A catamaran rides on pair of hulls, or sponsons, each thinner and sharper than  that of a similarly sized monohull boat. The narrow sponsons of the cat tend to slice easily through water to deliver a smooth ride, even in rough seas. At the same time, with the sponsons positioned out to the sides of the boat, cats tend to roll less, thus providing great stability to enhance crew comfort, security and safety. However, cats tend to corner more flatly than a monohull, and some hulls (but not all) tend to lean outward versus inward during a turn.

Experts Say

Newer designs such as Invincible’s Morelli and Melvin-designed semi-asymmetrical sponsons eliminate some of the negatives of the cat design, such as “sneezing,” where water sprays out the front of the boat when hitting a wave. They’ve also controlled the uncomfortable “outboard lean” ­sensation common in older designs when in a turn. Once transitioned to a ­catamaran, many become true believers and preach the benefits of the design.

Editor Says: Saltwater fishing cats not only offer superb stability and smooth ride, but some also display exceptional speed and range. I recall one trip out of Key West, Florida, aboard an Invincible 40 Cat with four 350 hp outboards to the Dry Tortugas. It was a 60-mile run, and we made it there in 70 minutes. We caught more fish than our arms could bear, and then dashed back to Key West, arriving in time for cocktail hour on the same day. -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor, Boating and Fishing Group

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2020 AmeraCat Gen II

Offshore center console catamaran.

AmeraCat took the original 27′ Gen 1 back to the drawing board in 2014 and changed things up a bit to make our fishing cat faster, smoother and more fuel efficient. We added higher gunnels, more displacement and managed to give our Center Console Catamaran even more space by increasing the beam to 9′. The 27′ Gen II is perfect for any recreational or commercial use and can be fully customized to meet any needs. With great handling from this center console fishing catamaran, you will not only have the softer ride but docking the 27′ Gen II is a breeze. All AmeraCat boats are made to order in our factory in South Florida so any customization is available. We believe that your boat should be built your way! If you are interested in getting more information or scheduling a sea trial on one of our Center Console Fishing Catamarans, use the Contact Us page or call us anytime. Below are a few images of the Gen II that give examples of the most popular options that other AmeraCat owners chose.

Specifications:

• Aprox. Dry Hull Weight-3340 lbs
• LOA- 27′ 2”
• Max HP- 600hp
• Fuel Gallons- 150/160 gallons
• Hull Draft- 14′
• STD Livewell Capacity: 50 Gal
• STD Fishbox Capacity: Approx. 300 Quarts
• Freeboard AFT:
• Freeboard Bow:
• Trailering Height: 

The 27′ Gen II is our most popular center console model. It’s designed perfectly for offshore fishing, diving or a nice cruise on the water with the family. The 27′ Gen II is lightweight, roomy, extremely stable in rough seas and it’s the perfect fit for law enforcement, government or any other commercial use. With many different options to choose from such as gunnel mount rod holders, dive ladder, outriggers, downriggers or even a few extra cup holders, you can customize an AmeraCat to fit your every need.

With a max horsepower of 500, you have a wide variety of twin engines to choose from that will get you to the fishing grounds fast, safe and most importantly, DRY. The 27′ Gen II can comfortably fish up to 6 anglers with plenty of room for tackle, live bait, fish boxes and coolers. Just like all the models in the AmeraCat lineup, the 27′ Gen II is an offshore fishing catamaran that is built with NO WOOD and cuts through the waves like a knife.

You will not only be amazed at the amount of room and storage you get with the Gen 2, but with upgrades like outriggers, an aluminum T-top, and anything else you can imagine, this catamaran can be fully stocked for an unbelievable price. At AmeraCat we offer the most affordable offshore fishing catamarans on the market.

Ready to get in touch with us to schedule demo ride of the 27′ Gen II? Use our Build A Boat form to get a general quote and let us know what custom upgrades you want for your new Fishing Catamaran. We can also be reached during normal business hours by phone at (772) 359-3641 or 24/7 via email at [email protected] . We look forward to hearing from you!

With AmeraCat, you are always dealing directly with the manufacturer not a dealer. This allows you to get factory direct pricing and not to mention, no one can answer questions like the creator! Having all the options you want added during the initial construction of the boat allows you to save money, time and the hassle of having to take your new boat to the shop just to have accessories installed.

Not located in our area? We also offer delivery of your brand new center console fishing catamaran at a reasonable rate. We also take trade-in of your existing boat, and we give you the highest possible amount with your trade-in towards your new AmeraCat*

The 27′ Gen II not the right size boat for you? Check out some of the other center console fishing catamarans we offer.

• 25′ Single Engine AmeraCat

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• Aprox. Dry Hull Weight- 2860 lbs
• LOA- 25′ 5”
• Beam- 8′ 6"
• Max HP- 350hp
• Fuel Gallons- 85 gallons
• Hull Draft- 15'
• STD Livewell Capacity: 45 Gal
• STD Fishbox Capacity: 200 Quarts
• Hull Draft- 14'
• Aprox. Dry Hull Weight- 4850 lbs
• LOA- 31′ 0”
• Beam- 9′ 10"
• Max HP- 800hp
• Fuel Gallons- 265 gallons
• STD Livewell Capacity: 60 Gal
• STD Fishbox Capacity: Approx 400 Quarts

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Catamaran Single Engine One Hull

Discussion in ' Multihulls ' started by Boatguy30 , Jul 20, 2012 .

Boatguy30 Senior Member

Does anyone have any practical experience with a catamaran having one engine on one hull? I realize this works fine offshore as many cats only run one engine whilst on passage. I'm concerned about handling mainly when cruising the intercoastal/ passing other boats, etc. I'm building a 34' Wood Vardo and thinking either a pod/sled mounted outboard or maybe 2 small single cylinder diesels. None are currently made so would be second-hand 1GM10 or BMW D7 I recently did a repower on a Searunner 34 and have the 12hp Westerbeke 12C. That engine is 225 lbs so not too heavy, but don't want two engines that weight. Hence the thoughts about the single engine and possible a electric drive on the other hull of some sort for maneuvering if necessary. Any thoughts appreciated. I ran this idea by Richard a while back and he prefers the outboard.  

Mr Efficiency Senior Member

Handling ? Needless to say, having the one engine on the corner of the boat will turn a lot more readily one way, than the other. Obviously you must also lose a little headway by having to have the line of thrust askew a little to keep running in a straight line.  

Frosty Previous Member

There was/ is a cat been built that claims to have uneven hulls to run on one engine --it has been discussed on these pages. My cat will not run one engine. I would not dream of manouverng close without both or even leave the dock with only one. I would not be able to take it out. A sailing cat might be different.  

Windvang Yacht Designer

Farymann has a 7HP single cylinder diesel, also available in saildrive version  

Steve W Senior Member

I used to own a Macgregor 36 cat with a single 9.9 yamaha on the stbd transom,for the most part it was fine but i had no remotes so i had to operate it from standing on the motor bracket and steering with the tiller bar in front of me when manouvering,also i kept the boat on a mooring and rarely went into marinas so we sailed on/off the mooring mostly. The advantage of an outboard on one transom is that it can be steered,the advantage to the single inboard would be that the prop would be ahead of the rudder. Two 9.9s at about 100lbs apiece would be a better bet i think. Steve.  

Jetboy Senior Member

Could put a small electric trolling motor on the other side for use around the marina. Should be easy to use with a simple fwd or reverse for the times you need it. I would think it would be much more manageable to have a single motor on a cat with dagger boards especially if you can pull the one on the side w/o the engine.  

rasorinc Senior Member

You could design a short third sponson for the center rear of the cat to direct water to a single outboard engine, then you have no manuvering problems. A kicker engine then could be placed on either of the oudside sponsons. That is my plan for the Glen-L BearCat.  

Dryfeet Junior Member

I've long considered this concept but have been unable to really decide whether I'd really, really do that. My 41' cat handles pretty well on one engine with a bit of planning. I've had no problem getting on a mooring with one engine but a slip or dock would be a touch nerve wracking. Even with two engines, I find that I would really be better able to use a bow thruster in many cases instead. I'd recommend a single engine and a single bow thruster if you didn't want a second main engine. There are a few pretty neat, small, retractable ones out that might do the job quite well. I also find that I really like the reduncancy of a second engine. I'm less concerned about a failure, or hitting something when I know I have another one around. Re-sale is another issue. I know, I know, you'll never resell it or you don't care (that was my thought anyway) but the cold, hard reality is that it will severely impact your ability to sell when you have something that is way out of the 'norm' and when (not if) you ever decide to sell, your market will be very, very small.  

cavalier mk2 Senior Member

It would seem to me that any one could install a second motor later for those worried about a boat outside of convention. (its going to be your boat isn't it?) Other options- one engine 2 props with hydraulic drive, or diesel electric with the one engine powering 2 electrics. The battery bank can be in the hull opposite the engine to balance the weight.  

The beauty of the single engine in one hull is that you can counter it in the other with batteries or a generator. Believe me, I think it's a potentially great way to go. Personally, I wouldn't mess with the complication and expense of the diesel-electric or worse yet, hydraulic single engine/two props hassle. I believe the OP is trying to save money because he has a single engine available to him. The only caveat I'm really making is that if one decides on a single engine installation in only one hull, then a bow thruster would be a reasonable solution for close quarters maneuvering.  

Its not the weight --its the torque from the thrust of one engine. You wanna go round in circles? Of course not so you need loads of rudder to make it go in a straight line, all this rudder causes drag. This gets to a point where it is more economical to run 2 engines and keep rudders straight.  

I think this guy Evan Gatehouse with the Woods Meander has one engine. He actually wrote an article about installing the single engine, but no mention of the handling. I have sent him an email via the woods forum. The head will be aft in the port hull so a later second engine would need to be further aft and possibly a saildrive. There's no chance I will do a hydraulic drive. I have the suitable diesel engine (need to go over it a bit) and just was at a jumble and picked up a 14" by 10" martec prop which seem about right for $20. I suppose the thing to do is chuck it in there and see how she goes. A 1" shaft won't need to big a hole. I guess the only real decision is whether to offset the shaft, but probably best not to based on resale considerations. Will be about 6 months until I would fit the engine, but had an interested buyer for the engine at the moment. I'm sure I can sell it just as well in 6 months. Any first hand experiences still greatly appreciated. Cheers, Jeff sailingcatamarans.blogspot.com  

I've moved cats with a yawl boat on one side tide up, having the power on one side works fine. Based on that and the reports of others I'd keep the shaft straight. You shouldn't need much rudder. Hydraulics have fallen out of favor though they are fairly straight forward. The deal breaker for me is the loss of power efficiency. i like the diesel electric approach, solar cells can always charge things up over time if you run out of fuel but you should be sailing anyway...... cost is an issue. I'd do as Richard suggested and use the outboard, the Yamaha high thrust is very reliable and thrifty.  

catsketcher Senior Member

On my mother's twin diesel C10 we often used only one engine. It was far more fuel efficient to up the revs slightly on one than to run two. My mate does this too. You only notice any torque when starting and stopping. I seriously thought about this for my cat. A similar cat has this setup and the owner hasn't changed if after 20 years so he can't hate it that much. My mate with twin diesels doesn't like them. Heavy, smelly, barnacles on the props, vibrate heaps and noisy, constant drag even with folding props. A single outboard can work well on a pivoting mount. That's what I have on my 38ft cat. It looks as though you have a prop. I hope its folding. If you put a fixed on a multi you may as well get a mono as the thing won't sail. The price for two folding props is more than the cost of a new 4 stroke outboard. Easy choice for me. cheers Phil  

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buzzman Senior Member

A 1975 built Crowther Spindrift 47 based at RMYC Newport NSW has a single Perkins 4-cyl, mounted on the bridgedeck abaft the rear cabin bulkhead. Takes a up a bit of space in the cockpit but gets the helm up nice and high..! However it drives two high-pressure hydraulic motors, one per hull, which take up minimal space.... The long term owner claims exceptional fuel economy compared to cats with twin donks.....so this might be an avenue worth pursuing. The boat is called Te Arawa, so those in the know will know who I mean and anyone curious could soon ring RMYC and leave a message.... ...or ask for more details and I'll forward requests.  

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