catamaran 25 ft

8 Best Catamarans That Are 30 Feet or Less

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site.

Large-sized catamarans are appealing due to their ample spacing and comfort. Therefore, a cruising family or couple looking to buy a boat is more likely to go for one of these. But are there small cruising catamarans that provide the performance, comfort, and amenities found in larger boats?  

The best catamarans under 30 feet (9.14 m) include the TomCat 6.2, Cadillac 27and 30, Gemini 30, Endeavour 30, and Maine Cat. These time-tested cruising cats are easy to handle, premium built, and are great for daytime sailing, overnight trips, and some even suitable for long-range sea passages. 

In this article, you’ll find a list of the best cruising catamarans below 30 feet (9.14 m). Keep reading to discover which catamarans make this list, what they have to offer, their pros and cons, and how much they cost.

If you are unsure whether or not 30ft is too small for your needs, then I suggest you check out another article I wrote named Best Size Catamaran , it will discuss why length matters and how it affects safety.

Unlike most catamarans designed for racing purposes, the TomCat 6.2 is a medium-sized cat that’s well-suited to daytime cruising. It boasts high-quality construction, vacuum-bagged hulls, and a plywood-reinforced deck.

This 20 footer (6.09 m) comes with an 11-foot (3.35 m) beam and not only offers you safety and comfort but performance and versatility as well. 

This boat has a centrally placed outboard engine and two rudders that allow it to turn quickly and maneuver confidently into and out of marina slips. The 9.9 hp outboard propels it to speeds of around 8 knots (9.21 mph or 14.8 kph), though the boat has the potential to move faster if desired.

This simpler type of cat (just one engine as an example) also allows for cheaper and easier maintenance. Maintenance costs are something most people underestimate when getting a cat, if you want to get some real numbers from actual sailors then I suggest you read this article (How much does it cost to maintain a cat).

The boat sails with minimal heeling, comfortably accommodate 6-8 people, and you can sail it single-handed or take a crew. 

High and narrow hulls bearing arched bottoms allow for a low wetted surface. The hull design provides low resistance and a great deal of reserved buoyancy and also enables you to drive through closely spaced waves.

On most 20-footers (6.1 m), driving through waves generates a smooth but wet ride, but with the TomCat’s enclosed deck (link to parts names explained here ), you are safe and protected behind a windshield and the high bulwark.

The TomCat makes an excellent cruiser because it performs impressively well both under sail and power. It combines the performance of a modern sailing cat with the comfort, style, and convenience of a powerboat. It’s also trailerable since you can detach the hulls from the deck , winch up the deck on a trailer, and slide the hulls underneath.

But the best part is that it’s easy on the pocket, with the price ranging between $36,750 and $44,580 .

Catalac 30 (9M)

The Catalac brand consists of strongly built vessels that sport thick hulls, glass windows, narrow beams, and vertical transoms . Catalac 30 was the first vessel in this popular British cruising line designed by Tom Lack in the late 60s. The boat’s appeal was attributed to its safety, ample spacing, well-built interior, and load-carrying abilities.

These characteristics are extremely important on a safe catamaran, overloading your cat makes it sit lower in the water, increases drag, reduces handling and speed, there is stuff you should know about this (so that you can make an educated buy). I have created an article where I try to explain the basics of a safe cat ( link here )

Sporting 5 berths, a massive galley, plus a cockpit with a sheltered steering position, the 30-foot (9.1 m) Catalac makes an excellent floating home for a cruising family. It sails exceptionally well, doesn’t heel ( heeling explained here ), and delivers a reasonable motor-sailer level of performance.

Furthermore, the hulls provide adequate headroom, allowing those on board to move around comfortably, and there’s enough space on the deck for sunbathing. 

The Catalac’s structure features solid fiberglass, chined hulls, and a staggered sheerline that allows easy aft access. With a modest rig that’s easy to handle, the Catalac can deliver top speeds of up to 12-14 knots (13.81-16.11 mph / 22.22-25.9 kph) under sail.

Given that the boat’s design focuses more on comfort than speed, this is a spectacular performance.  

Catalac 9M requires a skilled hand when turning into the wind as it is prone to blowing sideways. This is because the boat lacks ballast (which helps in keeping momentum during a tack) but also centerboards ( explained here ).

Skills are always the most essential things to bring aboard and you can acquire them in many ways, my two favorite ways are through NauticEd courses (two free courses here ) or by reading books (my top 15 books here )

Back to the boat! This model came in two versions; the standard layout contained a 30-40hp outboard, while the second option had duo engines. The latter is easier to maneuver into a marina. 

These cats retain their value pretty well. However, they might not be easy to come by since most owners find it challenging to get their hands on a larger boat with similar qualities and performance.

A Catalac 30 (9M) goes for between $33,000 and $55,000.

Catalac 27 (8M)

The Catalac 27 8M is a pocket cruiser that boasts a strong reputation for high quality, durability, and strength. Besides, the boat’s design makes it somewhat suitable for bluewater sailing ( understand why the small size is an offshore problem).

Built like a battleship, the boat contains solid fiberglass hulls. Additionally, it comes with double engines, a large cockpit fitted with cushions all around, and features standing headroom in each hull.

Like the Catalac 9M, this boat comes with two different layouts; a twin inboard diesel engine or an outboard engine. The twin-engine models can motor up to 1000 km (621 miles, read more on cat fuel consumption here ) without needing to refuel, while the 70 amps of charge plus water tanks (70 gallons / 265 liters) make these vessels remarkable coastal cruisers. 

Catalacs equipped with outboard engines sail faster since you can raise the engine during sailing and are also lighter. This helps to minimize drag . Catalac 8M sports a short but thick mast that helps make the boat stable. 

Though small in size, this catamaran packs a lot of features in its small frame. It has a full-sized berth, a large galley that’s almost 8 feet (2.4 m) long, a quarter berth, head, and navigation station.

What’s more, the cockpit is as large as that of a 38 to 40-foot (11.5 to 12.1 m) cat.

Catalac 27 costs about $31,836.

The Endeavour 30 

The Endeavour 30 catamaran is a boat characterized by stability, ample deck space, and a spacious interior. It boasts fast cruising speeds under both sail and power.

The boat has mini keels and rudders plus symmetrical hulls separated by a hydra-cell. The latter is a center section with a characteristic V-shape. 

The boat’s vacuum-bagged construction helps enhance strength and stiffness while reducing weight. Furthermore, the interior has a fiberglass mold, providing extra strength and rigidity. With sufficient breeze, this vessel can deliver reasonable off-the-wind and doable upwind speeds.

As such, you can expect to attain speeds of about ~10 knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph) on power reaches. Below is a video showing a panoramic tour of the Endeavour 30:

This vessel has the internal capacity of a 40-foot (12.1 m) monohull. And you can tell this from the unique layout merging the cabin and cockpit with wide doors to the numerous features packed into this 30-foot (9.14 m) vessel.

It has a spacious salon, an enormous galley, two queen berth staterooms with plenty of storage space, a head with separate showers, and a sizable U-shaped dinette. 

You can get this boat for under $50,000 .

The Geminis by Tony Smith were the United States’s first production cruising cats. Today, these vessels remain the most appealing American-built cruising catamarans. Built between 1981 and 1990, the Gemini 30 does not have a contemporary design, but it works remarkably well for cruisers desiring generous living space in a small affordable sailboat.

At only 14 feet (4.2 m) across, Gemini cats are somewhat narrow. But this mean s they can easily fit into most of the regular marina berths.

Besides, the boats still contain enough interior space for a queen-size double berth and two smaller doubles housed in separate guest rooms.

There’s also a modest but serviceable saloon with duo settees and a collapsible table that can transform into an additional double berth.

For the Gemini 30, this translates to a cruising cat with standing headroom that can comfortably accommodate 3 couples in private cabins or a family with small children. A good-sized galley, a spacious head with a shower, nav desk, and a large comfy cockpit make up the Gemini 30’s cruising palace.

Catamaran layout is highly personal and if you want to learn more about different characteristics then I suggest you read my article Designing the perfect catamaran layout ( Link )

While not that fast, the Gemini 30 will easily outsail the Endeavor 30 discussed above. Its daggerboards (which are explained in detail here ) can point well, and if you keep it light, it can do 7-8 knots (12.9-14.8 km/hr) under sail.

Besides, raising the daggerboards reduces the wetted surface area, and increases the speed downwind.

The Gemini 30 tends to pound and hobbyhorse a little when sailing in choppy waters – particularly when overloaded (more on load carrying capabilities in this article ), but the deep pivoting daggerboards provide stability and lift underwater.

Furthermore, the Gemini’s retractable rudders enable it to venture into shallow waters.

This is a very popular cruising cat that’ll give you a lot of bang for your bucks.

You can find a Gemini for less than $65,000.

Maine Cat 30 

The Maine Cat 30 combines premium quality construction materials with the most advanced building techniques to create a lightweight vessel capable of handling most offshore conditions. What’s more, this boat can remain trouble-free for years on end with little effort.

If you are in the market for a simple liveaboard cruiser that you can use for a short weekend getaway or a cruising voyage, this is it.

The boat has a sizable primary stateroom berth with ample overhead space and a dresser fitted with a hanging storage cabinet. The enormous head includes a toilet, sink, 20-gallon (75.71 L) holding tank, vanity, and a pressurized shower.

Covering the open bridgedeck is a permanent hardtop. This spacious bridgedeck can hold quite a crowd and comes with a convertible dinette that turns into an extra berth. If need be, you can even enclose the entire space using acrylic windows or screens. Gabo

The 360-degree visibility from the cockpit allows the captain plus the crew a panoramic view, and all sail controls go back to the cockpit, which is very useful if wanting to sail single-handedly.

I believe that most boats should be set up in this way since sooner or later you might be in a situation where there is only one person to handle the controls, such as in an emergency. But more on that in another article ( Link ).

The Maine Cat 30 is a classic boat that delivers on high-performance multihull sailing. Designed to offer much better performance than catamarans bearing tall and heavy bridge decks, this cat weighs less and suffers less windage thanks to the acrylic windows.

The boat’s interior layout allows for easy cleaning as surfaces sport a smooth gel coat and satin-finished cherry trim. The solid but lightweight furniture bears the same Core-Cell foam core employed on the hull, deck, and hardtop. Plus, there’s ample storage for all your sailing equipment, cleaning supplies, and provisions.

A Maine Cat 30 can cost up to $110,000.

Heavenly Twins 27

The overall design of this well-equipped catamaran makes it a superb pocket cruiser.

Heavenly Twins 27 manages to fit not one but two coachroofs on hulls that are only 27 feet (8.20 m) long. Canoe sterns and a central cockpit separating the duo coachroofs form the boat’s other prominent features. 

Famous for their excellent build quality, medium-depth draft, and narrow beams, Heavenly Twins 27 appeals to a wide range of boating enthusiasts.

These include solo sailors, weekend sailors, cruising families, circumnavigators, beginner sailors, and experienced liveaboards such as this famous Youtube channel “Kittiwake”.

The vessels house double cabins in the hulls while the forward starboard contains the heads and, to port, the galley. You can easily access the bar from the well-protected cockpit while the Comfordesk accommodation converts into a double dock. 

A stoop through allows access from below-deck to the aft compartment without going through the cockpit. There’s ample storage space throughout the boat, plus you can section off the large stateroom into smaller double compartments if desired.

The price range for this boat is $ 20,098 to $24,193. (I believe that kittiwake is for sale too)

The last cruising catamaran on my list is the Aquilon 26 . This French-built cruising vessel is light in weight and trailerable, which means you can disassemble it in a few hours or transport it as-is.

Designing a boat that is possible to disassemble usually means that it is structurally less strong, which by no means is a problem during coastal sailing but the Aquilon 26 is mostly attractive to sailors who prefer inland lake sailing. It’s also suitable for beginner sailors.

Although there are no real “beginner cats” there are specs to consider if you are a beginner with catamarans, most of them I have listed in another article ( here ). Gabo

This 26-footer (7.92 m) has the potential for good speed though its layout is anything but conventional- which forms part of its appeal.

The cockpit works as the saloon, and a full bimini protects the crew from lousy weather. The starboard hull contains a dinette and galley, and the port has a double berth stateroom. The windows are quite unusual, but they provide lots of light, remarkably enhancing interior visibility.

Aquilon 26 can deliver an average cruising speed of 10knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph).

On a beam reach, you can expect around 25 knots (28.77 mph or 46.3 kph) with an adequate breeze ( I have never sailed at 25knots but researching this boat supposedly it is possible).

You can get this boat for under $50,000.

What Makes Small Cruising Cats Attractive?

Small cruising cats are ideal for sailing along the coast. But that’s not all. Under capable hands, properly fitted smaller cats can also deliver spectacular offshore passages similar to their larger counterpart (Heres a list of full-sized bluewater cats).

They can operate over long cruise ranges, cross oceans , and circumnavigate the globe . Smaller cats are also suitable for day sailing, overnight trips, and coastal or inland voyages. 

For most sailors, comfort on board is crucial, so they’ll look for a vessel that guarantees a comfortable cruising experience. The good thing is that smaller vessels provide almost the same qualities and amenities that bigger vessels offer. Plus, you can do quite a bit with the available space, especially if it’s well laid out.  

You’ll find that most 30-footer (9.14 m) or more miniature cruising cats comprise a galley, head, bunks, navigation and entertainment electronics, and refrigeration.

Sailors usually talk about these benefits of smaller cats:

• They’re less expensive. Large boats are costly to buy. They also cost more to hire, maintain, and dock. You can buy a small-sized boat at a much lower price, and parts tend to cost less too. Besides, you get to use smaller sails, winches, and lighter lines than those applicable on a larger boat. And since marine services such as moorings and haul-outs get billed via boat length, a smaller cat makes sailing more affordable.
• They boast superior builds. Most cruising boats under 30 feet (9.14 m) feature designs that are 30+ years old. In those days, weather forecasts were hard to come by and not as accurate, so boat builders used hulls with thicker fiberglass than the type found in today’s builds. Furthermore, everything in the boat, including rigs, rudders, hulls, keels and decks, was designed to withstand strong winds and high waves. 
• They have simpler systems. This means less time spent fixing and maintaining your boat. For instance, most small cruising cats often lack water-makers, hot water systems, or electric anchor windlasses. 
• They’re easier to handle. Smaller cats are simpler to sail than larger cats. It’s also easier to sail one single-handed or with a small crew.

What is the largest cat on person can sail?

The Disadvantages of Smaller Cruising Cats

Below are some of the most discussed downsides of small cats:

• They have limited living space, storage, and amenities.
• Though they don’t heel much, they are less comfortable than larger boats since they get tossed around much more easily in big ocean swells.
• It’s not easy to accommodate crew for extended periods; hence there are fewer hands to share work.
• They are slower and take longer to get to their destination.

Though fewer are on the cruising trails than their larger counterparts, small catamarans make ideal cruisers because they are simple, seaworthy, and pocket-friendly.

When choosing the best cat for your needs, focus on quality rather than size. A well-planned 30-footer (9.14 m) is reliable and provides ample space for your accommodation, dining, and relaxation, plus a storage room for provisions and any spare parts you might need. 

And if you want even more info than I have presented to you in this article I would recommend a book from Serj, he makes it easy to understand why size matters and how to find a cat suited for your needs (amazon link )

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

Must-Have Boat Gear for Catamaran Sailors!

Sailing is probably the most gear-intensive activity I've ever done; there are so many decisions to be made about what gear to buy now, for tomorrow, and what to definitely never buy. The gear on...

6 Best Trailerable Trimarans For Bluewater and Coastal Sailing

Having a boat costs a lot of money, even when you are not using it, marina fees, etc. And once it is in the water most sailors never go very far from their "home marina" and sailing will be somewhat...

• European Union
• South Africa
• Photos & Videos

Virtual Tour

• Cabins: 3 or 4
• Heads: 3 or 4 (plus optional skipper bow head)
• Berths: 6 or 8 (plus optional skipper bow cabin)

Leopard 53 Powercat

The ultimate power catamaran that surpasses all others. Built by Robertson & Caine and designed by naval architects Simonis Voogd, the Leopard 53 Powercat marries comfort, performance and ease of handling, delivering an unparalleled blue water cruising experience. This 4th generation vessel features all the attributes that made its predecessors successful, while reimagining what a powercat should be. Here, there is no compromise; the Leopard 53 expertly combines luxury with the rugged and adventurous spirit for which the brand is known. The result is unprecedented space, stability, and efficiency with every creature comfort one would expect from a luxury motor yacht. Outdoor entertaining space is paramount, and the Leopard 53 has been expertly designed to anticipate every need of the passenger. Spacious seating large enough to accommodate everyone surrounds a large table, creating the perfect environment to convene and recount the day’s adventures, enjoy a meal with spectacular views, or just sit back and take in the salt air. Intuitive design throughout means improved functionality and efficiency, including the flybridge and helm station with maximized visibility. All coach roof windows are flat toughened glass for optical clarity. Smart, ergonomic design and the latest technology work harmoniously to create ease of operation and maintenance for a seamless onboard experience. Inside, a modern interior with a cool palette immediately sets the tone for at-sea living. The saloon features an L-shaped lounge and a two-person settee with an option to add an interior navigation station. The hull side window, with the option of different portlight configurations, as well as the coach roof windows and panoramic windows in the saloon, bring in an abundance of natural light. At night, smart lighting casts warm, consistent light throughout the space. It’s easy to move about with access to the foredeck through the forward saloon door. The galley, a natural gathering spot, offers ample storage and is outfitted with Staron® worktop surfaces and a full suite of appliances making meal preparations easy and enjoyable. The Leopard 53 Powercat reimagines comfort through its optimal use of space and attention to detail, evident in every aspect of the design. Available in three- or four-cabin layouts with the option for separate crew cabins, private quarters include ensuite heads with their own shower area. The three-cabin owner’s version provides an at-home feel with a large island bed, a walk-in closet and a double vanity. A separate engine room that houses all major systems is completely sealed off from the living space, substantially reducing engine noise and odors. The Leopard 53 Powercat brings freedom and exhilaration to cruising in a way no other powercat can. Sit back, relax and enjoy cruising on your own terms.

SPECIAL OFFER

• LOA: 53 ft 1 in / 16.19 m
• Beam: 25 ft 2 in / 7.67 m
• Draft: 3 ft 3 in / 1 m
• Bridgedeck Clearance: 2 ft 7 in / 0.79 m
• Max height above W.L. (excl. antenna stalks): 18 ft 6 in / 5.65 m
• Engine: Yanmar 370HP x 2
• Maximum Speed (in light ship conditions): 24 Knots
• Cruising Speed (in light ship conditions): 17 Knots
• Maximum Range Speed (in full load condition): 7.9 Knots
• Maximum Range Speed (with one engine in full load condition): 6.8 Knots
• Range at Max Speed: 342 Nm
• Range at Cruising Speed: 463 Nm
• Maximum Range with Both Engines: 1330 Nm
• Maximum Range with One Engine (in full load condition): 1995 Nm
• Engine No. Cylinders: 8
• Consumption Curves:  View Leopard 53 Powercat Performance Curves
• Fuel: 562 gal / 2130 L

EXTRA DETAILS

• Water: 185 gal / 700 L
• Displacement: 47203 lbs / 21411 kg
• Load Carrying Capacity: 13490 lbs / 6119 kg
• Holding Tank Capacity: 42 US Gal gal / 160 L

All Leopard Catamarans are NMMA and CE Certified. Speed and range figures can vary depending on measurement conditions and fuel quality. All specifications are to be confirmed by customer prior to purchasing.

DOWNLOAD BROCHURE

Related Boat Reviews

Leopard catamarans feature - passagemaker, southern boating leopard 53 powercat review, multihulls magazine - leopard 53 powercat review.

Make an appointment for a boat show, a sea trial, or simply receive a phone call from our expert agents.

Other Leopard 53 Powercat Buying Options

Check for current availability of used Leopard Catamarans and new Leopard Catamarans in charter programs on our sister sites

• 16' Catamaran
• 25' Catamaran
• Boat Financing
• Suzuki Marine

Home 25 Ft Catamaran

Overall Length

Approximate Weight:

Recommended HP:

Fuel Capacity:

47 Gallons or 72 Gallons (In the Hull Tanks)

Catamaran Hull

Max Person:

Hand Laid Construction

Solid Foam Filled Hull

Quality Construction, Hand Laid Fiberglass & Unsinkable Foam Filler allows us to warranty our hulls for 10 years.

Quality Inshore & Offshore Fishing Boats

735 N. Highway 35

Port Lavaca, Texas 77979

(361) 553-6939

sales@mowdyboats.com

Share This Page Socially

Best Liveaboard Bluewater Catamarans

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

Catamarans are known for seaworthiness, but what sets a run-of-the-mill recreational cat from a full-blown liveaboard blue water cruiser?

The best production blue water cruising catamarans are the Manta 42, the Lagoon 42, the Leopard 45, the Lagoon 450, and the Prout 45. These vessels have excellent living accommodations and great sea keeping abilities.

In this article, we’ll cover five of the best liveaboard cruising catamarans, along with what sets them apart from similar vessels. Additionally, we’ll go over what to look for in a catamaran that functions both as a home and an offshore adventure cruiser.

We sourced the specifications listed in this article directly from boat design guides and the manufacturers themselves.

Table of contents

‍ Characteristics of Liveaboard Cruising Catamarans

Generally speaking, blue water catamarans that are suitable for offshore cruising and living aboard are between 40 and 50 feet in length. Some well-designed catamarans between 25 and 39 feet in length can also be used.

A good liveaboard cruising catamaran should have adequate berthing and galley facilities, along with an enclosed cockpit. Catamarans without enclosed cockpits, especially smaller vessels, aren’t spacious enough in the hull to accommodate good liveaboard facilities.

As far as cruising is concerned, the best Bluewater catamarans are designed for durability and seaworthiness. A vessel’s sea keeping abilities rely on more than just smoothness and speed. These vessels should be water-tight in key locations, positively buoyant, and equipped with all the right extras.

Factors that Increase Catamaran Seaworthiness

There are several additions that manufacturers commonly include with sea-going blue water catamarans. These include water-tight hatches, radar units, a backup generator, and a berth close to the cockpit.

The latter is particularly important, as the captain and crew need to be able to grab the controls in the event of a nighttime emergency.

Other add-ons, such as automatic winches and controls, are extremely beneficial to blue water catamarans. These devices allow the sails to be controlled remotely without the crew needing to walk on deck.

Cruising Catamaran vs. Bluewater Catamaran

Fundamentally, cruising catamarans and ‘blue water’ catamarans are one and the same. When companies classify a catamaran as a ‘cruising’ catamaran, they usually do so because of a few notable design features.

These include cruising accommodations such as large-capacity water tanks, large fuel tanks, onboard power supplies (like a generator and a battery bank; sometimes solar panels), and long-distance communication systems. Radar is another perk, and it’s available on most cruising catamarans.

Best sea-going Liveaboard Catamarans

We searched the market, researched specifications, and listened to the owner’s opinions to find the best sea-going catamarans on the market.

These vessels are also spacious and comfortable enough to live aboard, both at sea on extended voyages and in a marina. Here are our top picks.

1. Manta 42

The Manta 42 is a well-known and popular cruising catamaran with a reputation for seaworthiness and exceptional comfort for its size. This vessel, while on the smaller end for cruising catamarans, is quite seaworthy and handles well in all conditions.

The Manta 42 is powerful—it has a large sail area for its size, which gives it incredible speed in both low and high wind conditions.

The Manta 42 has an unconventional design feature that makes it stronger than the competition—and technically, more seaworthy than many larger and fancier catamarans. The feature we’re referring to is the Manta 42’s fixed crossbeam, which is stronger than typical designs.

The Manta 42’s interior is really well-designed and ideal for living aboard. The hulls feature large berthing areas, and the center cockpit area features a full-size marine galley and sitting areas. This vessel is popular with families, as there’s plenty of room for parents and one or two kids.

2. Lagoon 42

Here’s another 42-foot cruising catamaran with exceptional seaworthiness, shallow draft, and spacious accommodations. The Lagoon 42 is a modern and advanced sailing catamaran with numerous cruising features, such as a self-tacking jib and a flybridge.

This model has extensive sleeping capacity. Standard versions can sleep up to 12 adults, which is much more than many catamarans in the 40 to 45-foot range. The vessel also features four separate heads, which ensures privacy for guests and family members.

This vessel is designed for comfort, and therefore it's a bit beefier than some slimmer and less spacious models. It’s a heavy boat with a 25-foot beam, and it has excellent sea keeping abilities.

The primary drawback of the design is that its size and hull shape limits speed. But this isn’t as big of an issue on long voyages, and it’s still much faster than an equivalently-sized monohull.

3. Leopard 45

This premium catamaran is a bit larger and more comfortable than the vessels we’ve discussed so far. It’s a luxury catamaran with everything you’d expect for the half-million-dollar price point.

 This vessel shines on the open water where it can let out its sails and stretch its legs. The vessel is lightning fast in the right conditions, and it has an astounding 700-gallon fuel capacity for when the wind isn’t blowing. You can sail it, motor it along, or do both at the same time for even greater speed.

From the factory, the Leopard 45 sleeps around 12 adults at its maximum capacity or four couples in separate staterooms—each with its own bathroom and shower. The center cockpit is also quite spacious, and the vessel can be navigated from the flybridge above the central living area.

4. Lagoon 450

Here’s another 45-foot catamaran that comes from one of the world’s most respected catamaran builders. Lagoon, which is currently producing several catamaran models, is known for its high-quality material choice and construction.

The Lagoon 450 is a flybridge sailing catamaran. Its design is based on the best-selling Lagoon 440—a slightly smaller model that proved itself over years of use and countless miles sailed between owners. And though it’s only 45 feet long, this catamaran is massive both inside and out.

The vessel is fast and nimble, and it has excellent sea keeping qualities. Below decks, the surprisingly wide hulls have room for full-size staterooms both fore and aft. But what the Lagoon 450 is known for is its deck space. There’s a ton of room on the decks for hanging out, living activities, and entertaining guests.

The center cockpit of the Lagoon 450 is like something out of a luxury condo. The styling is impetuous and airy, and there’s more than enough room to prepare a full meal for ten people or more. The settee can double as a sea cabin, with more than enough room for a small crew.

5. Prout 45

Here’s a sleek and fast catamaran that’s a superior choice for cruising and living aboard. The Prout 45 debuted in the 1990s and was a huge success.

Impressively, over 2,000 individual Prout 45 cruising cats were eventually produced. That’s a lot for a production catamaran—especially a large 45-foot model with a hefty price tag.

This sea-going catamaran has unconventional features, including pointed monohull-like bows and a nearly flush cockpit.

The interior arrangement of the vessel is unconventional as well, but many owners eventually learn to prefer it. For example, oddities include a galley in one of the hulls instead of the center, where catamarans often keep such facilities.

This is a fast cruising catamaran with a very shallow draft. Three feet six inches of draft, to be precise.

This means that the Prout 45 is ideal for sailing in shallow locations, such as around tropical coral reefs and in areas known for sandbars. The draft of this vessel is much closer in depth to that of a 20 to 25-foot displacement monohull than to a full-size 45-foot catamaran.

Related Articles

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.

by this author

Best Sailboats

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

September 13, 2023

Best Small Sailboats With Standing Headroom

December 28, 2023

Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $50K

Popular posts.

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

25 Ft Commercial Inspected Catamaran

• Our Smallest USCG Inspected boat.
• Built using the same USCG Approved hull and chassis structures as our longer boats
• These are offered in 12 ft. width and are the perfect platform for up to 18 passengers plus crew.
• These are perfect for using as Tiki Bar boat, water taxi, intimate group parties and eco tours.
• Because of their smaller size these can be powered with smaller outboard motors down to twin 40 hp. Commercial Outboard Motors
• As with all our boats you can customize them to your specific requirements.

Our boats are built Turnkey and include the following standard features:

40” high perimeter railing Fiberglass & gelcoat non-skid deck Full bottom Spray shield Fiberglass Captain’s Helm with all instrumentation including Compass and switches Hydraulic Steering system Required USCG commercial navigational lights Twin USCG inspected Fuel tanks w/ fuel separator filters Fuel tank covers Starting & house batteries USCG Compliant & approved 12 volt electrical system including overhead white and Red LED lighting

All Safety equipment to be operational:

Required signaling devices (trumpet horns, bell, and whistle) Firefighting equipment Tackle (Anchor, chain, & rode) Throw ring with strobe light MOB (Man Over Board) Rescue Platform VHF Radio and Antenna All safety & operational instruction placards We also offer many other options you may desire

Protected: 16- 20 plus crew Partially Protected: up to16 plus crew

• 27′ Gen 2
• 31′ AmeraCat
• Commercial Cats
• 27′ Gen II
• Fish Pictures
• Charter an AmeraCat
• Our Build Process
• Accessories

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

Search Our Site

• 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

Caught on an AmeraCat!

Privacy Overview

Sail Catamarans to 25ft | Used Yachts For Sale

• Jet Boats – New
• Spill Response
• Munson Built

A Seaworthy Investment

There are a whole lot of 25 foot boats out there, and indeed, some very good, but there is only one 25 foot boat that can say that its built like a Munson. The Munson 25’ Series is offered in both mono hull and catamaran and is available in 8’6” beam for easily trailering – or – 10’ beam if you want the most capable 25’ landing craft available.

The Munson 25’ Series is built using ¼” aluminum hull plating to provide quiet, comfortable ride. At Munson Boats, no compromises are made, no considerations are over-looked, no corners are cut. Ask any Munson Boat owner and they will tell you that no other welded aluminum boat is built like a Munson.

Our clients say it best…

“Our PACKMAN is working out great. We put it to a lot of good use last fall, moving supplies to and from our remote property.”

Read Full Testimonial

Model: 25-20 Sport

Anacortes, WA:   This nicely finished 25’ Munson is used to comfortably transport her owners and guests to and from their island home.   The cabin is outfitted with seating for 6 persons, cabin heater, Fusion stereo with subwoofer and a porta-potti.   Additional options include a side boarding door, dive ladder, 6 rod holders and downrigger mounts. Dual Garmin navigation displays, a Flir 364 infrared camera and Zipwake dynamic trim interceptors complete the package.

Specifications

Model: 25-19 Research

Gig Harbor, WA: World Vets provides research, rescue and disease investigation involving marine life and habitat throughout Washington State working with seals, whales, orcas, dolphins, turtles, porpoises and sea lions. Their 25’ Munson is outfitted with a roof top spotting station for increased visibility. Additional outfitting includes seating for up to 8 passengers, porta potty, side dive door, and Raymarine Axiom Pro RVX electronics package.

Model: 25-18 Utility

Mashpee, MA: Located on Cape Cod, the Town of Mashpee selected this 25’ Munson for aids to navigation maintenance, search & rescue and law enforcement activities. Outfitting includes a center console T-top with pilot & co-pilot suspension seats, side dive door, lifting davit, tow post and engine guard. Garmin navigation electronics and an EZ Loader trailer complete the package.

Model: 25-17 Utility

Smithtown, NY: Located on the North Shore of Long Island, Smithtown is an eastern suburb of New York City. The Smithtown Parks Department uses their 25’ Munson for maintaining marinas, beaches and aids to navigation. Outfitting includes a 1000 lb lifting davit, side boarding door, push knees, tow post and engine guard. The console T-top is fitted with a canvas enclosure and Webatso forced air diesel cabin heater.

Model: 25-16 Sport

Erasmus Island, BC: Located 40 miles north of Campbell River, Erasmus Island is privately owned and only accessible by boat. M/V Whisk comfortably transports her owners and gear to and from their island home. The center console with canvas enclosure provides protected seating for four persons. Additional outfitting includes a side boarding door, lifting davit, tow post, engine guard, rod rack, and Bob’s Machine Shop hydraulic jack plates for lifting the motors in shallow water operations.

Model: 25-15 Sport

Sturt Island, BC: Located between Vancouver Island and the mainland, Sturt Island is a 85 acre private island in an unspoiled setting. M/V SeaBeast is used to transport her owners and guests to and from their island home. The walk around cabin is outfitted with seating for five persons, head, forced air heater, and Garmin radar/plotter/sounder. Additional outfitting includes a side boarding door, davit, downrigger mounts, engine guard, 6 person RescYou Pro canister life raft and trailer.

Model: 25-14 Utility

Tulsa, OK: The US Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District operates 8 hydroelectric power plants in Oklahoma and Texas. Their 25’ Munson utility boat is used for environmental cleanup, aids to navigation, law enforcement, and emergency response. Outfitting includes a davit with 12V winch, push knees, tow post, engine guard, search light, strobe lights, depth sounder, and trailer.

Model: 25-13 Survey

New York, NY: The US Army Corps of Engineers New York District is responsible for the water resource development, navigable waterways and environmental remediation projects for 400 miles of coastline, 8 major river basins, Port of New York and Long Island. Their 25’ Munson is outfitted with a 600 lb capacity hydraulic A-frame and 8000 watt 480V 3-phase generator for powering a P-3 underwater vibracorer for collecting core samples of underwater sediments.

Model: 25-12 Utility

Maple Island, MI: The Great Lakes are home to many Munson Boats including this 25’ that is used to service a private home on Maple Island. The walk-around cabin is outfitted with seating for four passengers, forced air cabin heater and Furuno NavNet MFD-12 radar/sounder/plotter. The main decks, bulwarks and gunwales are finished with gray Line-X non-skid coating.

Model: 25-11 Utility

Anacortes, WA: This Munson is operated as a utility boat in Puget Sound. Outfitting includes a Garmin radar unit and durable Line X deck coating. The boat is powered by Mercury's new four cylinder 150HP outboards offering great fuel economy and plenty of power while loaded. The bow door is flanked by wrapping push knees

Model: 25-10 Dive

Truk Lagoon, South Pacific: Odyssey Adventures operate the M/V Odyssey on extended dive cruises to the Truk Lagoon shipwreck dive sites. They operate a Munson as a day boat to transport divers from the mothership to dive locations. The walk thru transom allows divers to enter the boat via large transom ladders. The closed bow features recessed steps and push knees to provide easy boarding from mothership. A dive tank rack with seating runs along vessel centerline.

Model: 25-6 Sport

Kodiak, AK: M/V Hi-Ho-Silver II is a family sport fishing and excursion craft based out of Kodiak. The owners load an ATV on to the main deck during remote hunting trips. The outboards are mounted on hydraulic transom lifting jacks to permit shallow water operation. Fishing equipment includes rocket launcher pole storage and downrigger mounts. The wheelhouse features a galley cabinet with sink and forced air diesel cabin heat.

Model: 25-4 Utility

Bayfield, WI: The Apostle Island Parks Department maintains two identical Munson boats to transport equipment and personnel from the Wisconsin Great Lakes mainland to project sites on Apostle Island. The wheelhouse features seating for five and diesel forced air cabin heat. The forward deck is outfitted with a 12v lifting davit with foot switch, tie down points for ATV transport, and folding bow door loading ramps.

Model: 25-3 Patrol

Chincoteage, VA: The Coast Guard patrols the Virginia coast aboard this Special Purpose Craft (SPC-SW). Main duties include Search and Rescue, Maritime Law Enforcement, and coastal security. The twin Honda outboards are mounted on hydraulic transom jacks to permit operation in 18 inches of water. Special features include suspension captains seats, a tow line reel, an M-60 machine gun mount, and removable ballistic panels.

Model: 25-1 Utility

Dalles Dam, WA: Dalles Dam extends 1.5 miles from the Oregon shore to the navigation lock on the Washington shore. The project consists of a navigation lock, spillway, powerhouse and fish passage facilities. The US Army Corps of Engineers operate their Munson during the general upkeep and maintenance of the Columbia River dam. The deck features a side door and extended push knees and the wheelhouse offers cabin heat.

“Our PACKMAN is working out great. We put it to a lot of good use last fall, moving supplies to and from our remote property. We also used it for hunting and fishing, as a point of interest the first fish I caught from the boat was a nice King salmon. We have had a great deal of enjoyment with the boat and it has always performed very well with all loads and weather conditions. Overall, we think it is a great boat and we really enjoy it, and even in rough water it feels very stable.”

John & Jean Juneau, Alaska

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

A Boat Designed to Be a Breath of Fresh Air

The creators of the latest vessel from Azimut Yachts went to great lengths to reduce its emissions, but even they won’t call it green.

By Ian Volner

Reporting from Milan

This article is part of our Design special section about water as a source of creativity.

In the middle of Milan Design Week last month, in the middle of the Bagni Misteriosi — a historic bathing complex in the Porta Romana neighborhood — the Italian luxury shipbuilder Azimut Yachts hosted an unusual exhibition. It was a celebration of the company’s latest offering: the Seadeck 6, which made its debut last year and features interiors by the design team of Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez.

Having been lowered into the facility by crane, the nearly 60-foot vessel was set afloat in an outdoor swimming pool. There it bobbed, traversed by hordes of well-coiffed guests while a concealed apparatus shrouded it in bursts of atmospheric steam. Surreal, elegant, not a little absurd, it was a scene straight out of Fellini, with overtones of Werner Herzog’s boat-hoisting epic “Fitzcarraldo.”

But the thing that made it most unusual? “Azimut wanted to make this the most sustainable boat on the market,” Mr. Rodriguez said. “We tried to do that.”

The ultimate playthings for the ultrawealthy, high-end pleasure craft would not seem optimal candidates for greening. Yet a growing number of manufacturers and designers are trying to change that, producing yachts both large and (comparatively) small assembled from fewer and less carbon-intensive materials, requiring a fraction of the power to run and drawing more of their energy from renewable sources.

In a peculiar twist for an industry uniquely exposed to supply-chain shocks and the vicissitudes of geopolitics (the loss of the once-lucrative Russian market continues to smart), global brand leaders appear to be making the move toward energy efficiency of their own accord, rather than in response to any explicit demand from their clientele.

“We will have to see if the world is ready,” said Giovanna Vitelli, Azimut’s chairwoman, as she stood aboard the Seadeck 6 during its not-quite maiden, not-quite voyage.

It is an approach that entails some risk. In January, Silent Yachts — an Austrian solar-electric catamaran company with facilities in Fano, Italy — was reported to be approaching bankruptcy amid problems with both its corporate parent and a key subcontractor. A former client stepped in to rescue the brand from insolvency, yet challenges remain. In a recent interview with the trade publication Superyacht News, the company’s new chief operating officer, Fabrizio Iarrera, spoke of the “costs associated with creating an entirely new market.”

Still, the push toward more sustainable yachting appears to be barreling forward, part of a broader shift in the role of design in the industry. Seven years ago, Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture in New York — known for its plush hotel interiors for the hospitality magnate Ian Schrager — was invited by Azimut’s sister company Benetti to develop a new yacht concept, the Oasis. It was one of the rare instances in which Benetti, founded in 1873, had sought out collaborators with no previous maritime experience, and all parties took it as an opportunity to import a set of values they viewed as lacking in the boating world.

According to Enrico Bonetti, the architecture firm’s co-founder, boat design previously favored grand spaces that no one actually liked. “There’s always this big table nobody’s using, then you step into another place with shiny things,” he said. “We didn’t follow that.” With its open, airy living space, wood paneling and notable lack of gold leaf, the Oasis represented a more humane vision for the yacht of the future, one constrained by at least the appearance of refinement and reserve, though it was ritzy nonetheless.

That low-key tendency is very much in line with the decarbonization campaign now underway at Azimut and other builders. In recent years, design studios like Zaha Hadid Architects and Pininfarina have turned out yacht proposals that pair sleek visuals with reduced reliance on fossil fuels; later this year, Yves Béhar, the Swiss-born product and furniture maestro, will unveil his own take on the trend — a catamaran designed for an as-yet unnamed manufacturer. “It’s essentially an E.V.,” said Mr. Béhar, who was also in Milan for the design fair.

Underlying the designer eco-yacht phenomenon is the intuitive sense, as Antonio Rodriguez put it, that “silent luxury” is fast displacing opulence. Where previous generations of yachters sought to flaunt their wealth, today’s owners may be less keen to draw attention to their own affluence. In reducing their carbon footprint, boatmakers are hoping to lure customers eager to reduce their profile, while still allowing them to ply the seven seas in style.

The Seadeck 6 certainly does that. With a crisp, white exterior — the work of the veteran yacht designer Alberto Mancini — the ship sleeps up to eight in three below-deck cabins. Topside, guests can sprawl in fore and aft lounges, or take lunch prepared in a semi-concealed galley, served on an elegant foldout table. The interior palette is muted, the contours soft, and everywhere, Ms. Vitelli said, the intention was to let people “feel close to water” rather than immuring them in an oceangoing penthouse.

Relatively speaking, the Seadeck’s ecological credentials are also impressive. Nearly every feature has been retooled for minimal environmental impact: replacing the customary teak deck with sustainably sourced cork; covering the walls and upholstering the seating with organic and recycled materials; even sealing the hull with something the company refers to as an ‘eco-gel finish.’” Most important, the craft incorporates a still-novel (for marine propulsion) hybrid engine, capable of a top speed of 33 knots with the ability to navigate about 200 miles offshore — enough for a quick spin from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas.

Add it together, and the company claims the Seadeck 6 and its larger cousin, the 71-foot Seadeck 7, achieve an operational carbon output 60 percent that of comparable vessels.

It’s a start, but only that. A comparative analysis with a similarly sized Azimut product — coupled with statistics from the Environmental Protection Agency — suggests that the cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Nassau would contribute roughly 4,400 pounds of carbon dioxide on the Seadeck 6, well over what the average American produces in a month.

And then there are the more immediate costs: around $2.8 million for the Seadeck 6 and $4.25 million for the Seadeck 7. Ms. Vitelli said the company hopes that enough buyers will come aboard to make price reductions possible in future.

A lot is riding on these hopes. Elsewhere in Milan, at the giant exhibition hall of the Salone del Mobile furniture fair, a talk session with a group of yacht experts underscored the stakes: During the panel, Stefano de Vivo, the chief commercial officer of the luxury yacht brand Ferretti Group, presented a slide showing Italy’s dominance in the custom-yacht sector, with domestic manufacturers taking a large share of the $9 billion global marketplace.

Mr. de Vivo declared sustainability essential to shipbuilding’s ongoing success and spoke of a general convergence with the design field at large. “As a shipyard, we’ve had to become less ‘marine,’” he said.

Back at the Bagni Misteriosi, mariners did seem in somewhat short supply, as various design lovers and Salone personalities (including the celebrated architect Michele de Lucchi, who helped create an on-site installation for Azimut) swanned around the bathhouse garden and its waterborne centerpiece. As an image of an ecologically sensitive future, the spectacle seemed off the mark — but then the Seadeck’s creators are careful not to make any overly sweeping claims as to whether their yacht, or any yacht for that matter, can truly be deemed an ecological asset.

“We don’t really like the word ‘sustainable,’” Mr. Rodriguez said. “We prefer to say it’s ‘conscious.’”