power catamarans in rough seas

9 Best Power Catamarans For Rough Seas and Coastal!

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Power catamarans are gaining popularity in the cruising world thanks to their enhanced stability and ease of operation. They’re ideal for coastal cruising but can also be used for ocean crossing thanks to their stability and speed.

Here are some of the best power catamarans on the market:

• Fountaine Pajot MY6
• Nautitech 47 Power
• Horizon PC74
• Lagoon Seventy 8
• ArrowCat 420
• Sunreef Supreme 68

In this article, I’ll review some of the best power catamarans out there. I’ll also go over the main features of different power cats and if they can handle rough weather. 

But before we dive in, let’s get a better understanding of what power cats are.

Table of Contents

What Is a Power Cat?

A power catamaran (power cat) is a motor-powered boat that, unlike traditional boats, has two hulls connected by a bridge deck. These vessels are more stable than monohulls because of their wide base.  

Power cats also don’t have a leaded keel to weigh them down, so they’re pretty lightweight and fast. The lack of a keel also means that power cats are more suitable for shallow waters.

They feature large engines designed to handle their bigger bodies and weights, and serve different purposes, like fishing, cruising, or crossing rough seas. In addition, each hull has a separate engine which makes them more maneuverable, especially at turns and tight spaces.

Power catamarans don’t have sails or masts and get all of their power from the combustion engine (or electric motor), unlike their sailing cousins. In addition, these vehicles are much easier to steer because of their increased stability.

Power catamarans have more interior and exterior space thanks to their multihull design, making them perfect for cruising and liveaboard . They also have ample space for storing everything you need on a cruise without worrying about weighing it down. Catamarans offer increased privacy as well because each hull houses one sleeping area, separated by the living area between them.

Are Power Cats Good in Rough Water?

Power catamarans are good in rough waters particularly because of their multi-hull design. Their wide base makes them stable, and their high speed allows for outrunning bad weather.

Power cats that feature a high bridge clearance, will handle rough waters effortlessly. With the added height, you won’t experience pounding and slamming even in heavy waves, allowing the crew to easily control the vessel in challenging situations.

These boats are also faster than their sailing counterparts, which means they can get you out of rough waters quickly.

In addition, since catamarans are large and tall, maneuvering is easier because you have a better view of the surroundings. Additionally, you can steer from the interior cockpit (on certain models), making it easier to control the vessel in bad weather.

Finally, although a power cat doesn’t have a keel to help it right itself in case of capsizing, it will still float easily because of its positive buoyancy.

Are Power Catamarans More Efficient?

Power catamarans are more fuel-efficient than monohulls because they don’t have leaded keels. While keels are designed to offer stability by weighing down the vessel, they increase the wetted surface and thereby add drag.

Due to the catamarans’ narrow bow entry, there’s lower resistance, leading to smoother acceleration and greater fuel economy in catamarans. In addition, power cats show fewer spikes in fuel consumption in a single power band, especially because of their smooth acceleration and fuel consumption.

The figures reported by cat owners or manufacturers show that power cats have the best power-consumption-to-speed ratios.

That being said, you can improve fuel efficiency by maintaining lower speeds; studies have shown that speed can be the most important factor in fuel efficiency, regardless of the number of engines or hull types. 

Now that you have a better understanding of power catamarans, let’s take a look at the ten best models on the market.

1. Leopard 53

This 53ft (16.19m) power cat is the fourth generation of the widely popular Leopard catamarans, and brings with it all the great features from her predecessor, the 51. 

Although the 51 was the company’s best-selling cat, they added these features to the 53 along with new ones to repeat its success. For example, they have built an enormous saloon, flybridge, and galley by removing the foredeck cockpit in the 51 PC, making it 30 percent larger than the previous model.

This model comes with three or four stateroom layouts, with the 3-stateroom version featuring an owner’s stateroom, two sinks, a loveseat, and lots of storage space.

With two Yanmar 370 hp engines, a maximum speed of 22 knots, and a cruising speed of 17.5, you can enjoy a magnificent ride, whether it’s long-distance cruising or a fun night out with friends.

2. Fountaine Pajot MY6

This luxury power cat is 44ft (13.40m) long, making it super spacious and suitable for families and big parties. With its spacious flybridge, sunbathing lounge, and enormous galley, it’s nothing short of a second home on the water. 

You can steer the cat from the saloon or the 21sqm (68 sq ft) flybridge which features a sunbathing lounge, a pool, and a galley.

This motor yacht continues to delight with its luxurious combination of privacy and pleasure, with views of the sea in almost every interior space. With three cabins, two bathrooms, six cabin beds, ample storage, and a kitchen that opens into the cockpit, you can enjoy practicality and luxury in one place.

The MY6 is exceptionally seaworthy and stable thanks to its wave-piercing hulls and Volvo IPS engines.

Like all power cats, it has straightforward steering, enabling you to control this beast even in the roughest circumstances.

3. Nautitech 47 Power

Powered by dual Volvo Penta D4 engines, this model can output 225-300hp, reaching a maximum of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 18-20 knots . This 46′ 8″ (14.23m) long power cat comes in three or four cabin versions, depending on the customer’s preference.

No matter which layout you choose, you’ll get a spacious, luxurious, and comfortable catamaran with panoramic views from the cabin. The sleek, streamlined exterior design ensures elegant sailing and seaworthiness.

It’s easy for passengers to navigate the deck thanks to its seamless design that connects the saloon to the cockpit and the rear deck. The stern features a big swimming platform that can also accommodate a tender. The cockpit is usable in different weather conditions thanks to the clear covers wrapping the whole area.

This efficient catamaran promises long cruising for big families and groups with two 300L water tanks and a pair of 645L fuel tanks.  

4. Horizon PC74

The Horizon PC 74 is another luxury power cat that can give you the comfort of your home on water. This 73′ 9” (22.48m) long power cat with a 2,000gal (7570L) fuel tank is an enormous vessel that can accommodate more than 14 people.

The enormous hardtop on the three-piece windshield, the teak dining table, the U-shaped bar, the sun pad, and the swing-out stools all guarantee that you’ll have the luxury cruising experience of a lifetime.

This vast and wide catamaran allows you to access the aft deck from the flybridge via a curving staircase. The vast aft deck has a ten-person dining table, a wet bar, and storage space. You can separate the interior and exterior spaces through sliding glass doors and make the space appear bigger by opening them.

Reaching a top speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots, this enormous catamaran was built for efficiency and practicality.

5. Lagoon Seventy 8

This 78’1″ (23.80m) power cat with two 494 HP engines and a 2246gal (8500L) fuel capacity is one of the largest power cats on the market, offering both comfort and reliability. The enormous flybridge can feature a jacuzzi, a sunbathing area, a large foldable dining table, and a hardtop with a moveable roof. However, you can customize the flybridge based on your preferences.

The designers have compromised nothing in terms of elegance and high-quality materials with top-of-the-line finishes and interior paneling to create the kind of luxury you want.

The saloon is huge, well-ventilated, and separated from the exterior by glass doors and panoramic windows.

But what sets Lagoon Seventy 8 apart from other power cats, in addition to its enormous size, is the wide choice of layouts. You can choose between five different versions, all offering the same amount of storage space, living and sleeping area, and privacy.

Additionally, some versions are fully customizable, allowing you to pick every detail to your liking.

6. ArrowCat 420

This 41′ (12.73m) long express cruiser is a semi-custom catamaran with two-stateroom and three-stateroom layouts. The ArrowCat 420 is designed and built with comfort and strength in mind, and capable of handling rough waters safely.

The two Suzuki 350 hp engines give this model a maximum speed of 40 knots and a cruising speed of 20 knots.

The streamlined design and the angled hulls ensure the vessel cuts through the waves effortlessly, making it easy to maneuver.

The fully-equipped head features an electric toilet, a shower, sink, and mirrors, coupled with a dining table, floor storage locker, and teak-finished floors. This cat is built to combine luxury and comfort for both onshore and offshore cruising.

7. Bali 4.3

This 43′ (13.1m) power cat is made for ocean crossing in mind. With five different layouts featuring different combinations of cabins and heads, the company ensures you’ll get the kind of setup you want. Regardless of the layout, this cat offers a spacious master suite with a large double bed and other private sleeping quarters.

You can quickly add to the overall space by removing the adjustable glass doors to merge the cockpit with the saloon.

A feature that sets the 4.1 apart from its predecessor is the fixed aft deck between the hulls, which provides a passageway and eliminates the need to go from one hull to the other without entering the cockpit.

8. Sunreef Supreme 68

According to its designers, this model was built with a radical concept in mind while staying true to the company’s promise of building the most comfortable and spacious power cats in the world.

One of the greatest features of the Supreme 68 is its aft garage that houses a 5m (16 ft) tender and two jet skis in addition to other water toys.

You can also transform the aft to a large platform for water sports by lowering the garage door.

The four-stateroom layout features ample storage, ensuite guest cabins, queen-sized beds, and TVs to create a memorable stay. The white and beige furniture with chrome details and floor-to-ceiling glazing create a soothing atmosphere that blends with the practicality of the well-equipped galley. 

However, if you’re looking for something different, you can opt for a customized model from three different layouts.

9. Hudson 48

The sleek, diamond-cut design of this 46.46’ (14.16m) long power cat is usually the first thing to catch your eye.

It’s a light displacement cat that ensures fast cruising with a top speed of 24 knots and cruising speed of 8 knots thanks to the two 370hp Yanmar V8 engines.

The three-cabin layout features a master stateroom with a spacious and well-ventilated design made possible via the three overhead windows and opening deck hatches.

The saloon’s enormous helm station allows for comfortable and safe accommodation, making it great for rough waters and bad weather conditions.

This model also offers a few entertainment options with its large TV systems and mood lighting. The storage areas and the full-sized walk-in wardrobe give this model a comfortable, homely setting.

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books:  For getting started, I really like  Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication:  Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations,  check out this resource  that I made for you!

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

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This New 40-Foot Power Cat Was Built to Tackle Rough Waters

Leopard's new 40 was designed and built in cape town, south africa, known for its big coastal waters., kevin koenig, kevin koenig's most recent stories.

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Capetown, South Africa, is surrounded by some of the world’s most notorious waters. If a boat builder calls this area home—as Leopard Catamarans does—you can rest assured that its hulls are designed to be seaworthy.

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Trim tabs typically don’t work well on catamarans, so Leopard used a computational fluid dynamics algorithm in a virtual test tank to ensure that this model would run level in big seas, with the twin goals of maximizing guest comfort and solidifying lines of sight. Leopard says the process also increases fuel efficiency. The model comes with multiple Yanmar diesels, including twin 250-horsepower, 320-horsepower, and 370-horsepower versions. With the twin 320 powerplants, top speed is 23 knots while cruise is about 16.

The 40’s main deck is flush, leading from the fairly sizable cockpit into a salon that is filled with windows, providing exceptional views from this glass sanctuary. The windshield flips open for ventilation, and the forward door creates a passage to the boat’s broad foredeck.

The lower deck has three staterooms, each with its own head and shower, with the main suite being on the starboard side, running the full length of the pontoon.

The foredeck makes excellent use of the boat’s generous beam. There’s a sun lounge, of course, for enjoying the area. Perhaps more interesting is the stowage beneath the cushions, where a deep, wide locker is designed to hold toys, extra clothing, dive tanks, or whatever other equipment needs to be stowed. Two other lockers forward of this one let you really load the boat for long-distance cruising. Sturdy, thigh-high guardrails encircling the bow providing an element of safety for with family cruises.

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Designed with a singular vision...To deliver unmatched performance and efficiency!

Introducing the insetta 35ifc  – the bar has been raised.

The Insetta 35IFC was designed with a singular vision… to be the best-performing center console sport fishing catamaran in its class.  Enjoy unmatched performance, range, and efficiency thanks to the 35IFC’s hydrofoil-assisted design.

In addition to being the best High-Performance Fishing Catamaran in its class, it also provides a smoother and dryer ride in the rough stuff!

This boat was designed for people who fish, by people who fish!  From its integrated livewells to its cavernous coffin boxes, level open deck layout, massive insulated storage and so much more, this boat was designed for maximum range and fishability!

Here’s what our customers have to say: “Holy crap do I love my 35 IFC with the Merc 300 V8’s on the back. We ran her down to Key Largo the other day, snorkeled all day, got lunch at Shipwrecks Bar and Grill, and ran back. Cruised between 40 and 45 mph, mostly around 42. So smooth it’s nuts. Burned maaaayyybe 40 gallons for the whole day. As we cruised the dashboard was telling us between 1.7 and 1.8 mpg, but I’m pretty sure we cruised more than 40 miles and burned between 35 and 40 gallons, no more. So… suffice it to say that you guys have absolutely crushed it and changed the game here. Fantastic work”! – Alan, Hull #4

Check out our FAQ’s section below for more about the Insetta 35 with  IFC!

Specifications

Length Overall

Maximum Beam

Maximum Draft

Fuel Capacity

Cruise Speed

Cruise Miles Per Gallon (MPG)

Over 850 miles*

Cruise Range

Standard Features

Standard “Insetta White” Gelcoat Molded in Diamond Non-Skid Tackle Storage Stbd Side Tackle Storage Port Side 19 Gallon Freshwater Washdown/Shower 5 x In Deck Storage Hatch 2 x In Deck Macerated Fish Boxes 625 Qt Insulated Coffin Box, Split Boxes Walk through Transom Access (Door Optional) Two 36 gallon Integrated Transom Livewells Fresh and Raw Water Washdown 34 Rod Holders (gunnels and coffin box) 7 Stainless Gemlux Pull-Up Cleats LED Navigation Lights Boarding Ladder

Recessed Stainless Bow Rail

Helm / Console

Fiberglass Hardtop with Powder Coated Aluminum Supports Tempered Safety Glass Enclosure for Console 6 Integral Rod Holders Built into Rear Support Molded Fiberglass Leaning Post with Rear Face Seating and cooler 3 Wide Helm Seats 6 S/S Cup Holders Storage Box and Rigging Tray on Rear Facing Seat Storage Drawers Under Helm Seats 165 Qt Leaning Post Ice Box Located Under Rear Face Seats

Base Upholstery

Equipment and Electronics

3 Part Internal Foil System

3 Pump Capacity Sea Chest with Dual Livewell Pumps & Raw Water Feed

4 1100 GPH Bilge Pumps (2 in Each Sponson)

Standard Capacities

490 gallon fuel capacity.

625 Qt Insulated Coffin Box with Divider

165 Qt Leaning Post Ice box

Dual 36 Gallon Livewells

19 Gallon Freshwater

Frequently Asked Questions

IFC is Insetta Boatwork's Internal Foiling System.

You can expect a significant increase in cruise speed; Improved handling and stability in rough conditions; Better acceleration; A boat that is less affected by increased payload; A 20-40% increase in fuel efficiency; and a 20-40% further cruise range! Additionally, the IFC technology will also provide a drier ride in choppy conditions and Provide for more responsiveness when turning at speed!

The system is a fixed setup, there is nothing to operate and there are zero moving parts.

The IFC Technology in effect smooths out rough seas by allowing the boat to run from wave crest to wave crest at a relatively smooth and stable attitude. The IFC System creates lift which help to in effect “Carry” the hull higher in the water. The system acts as a set of wings carrying the boat at speed, keeping the hull from having to follow each wave across its entire contour. In other words the surface of the waves have less effect on the hull as the IFC system is lifting the boat. Additionally, the aerodynamic lift created by the catamaran hulls creates even more lift at the bow of the boat, keeping the nose high and preventing the “slamming” or sneezing found in other catamaran hulls.

No, you don’t. The foils are flush mounted to the bottom of the keels of each sponson (as well as up in the tunnel.) At its centerline the main foil of the IFC system is only slightly lower than the keel line. The boat will easily load onto a standard catamaran trailer. There is no big contraption hanging way down under the boat.

Remember, the foils are INTERNAL to the tunnel. At its lowest point the main foil is only slightly lower than the hull and is higher than the props. Because of this the odds of striking the foils are extremely low. The boat is designed to be lifted by the foil. The structural integrity of the foil system is such that the weight of the boat could be supported many times over by the foil. As such, if you did somehow manage to strike the foil on something EXTREMELY SUBSTANTIAL, like a stone shoal, the likely outcome is that you may (in a very worst case scenario) bend or break a foil wing. If that were to happen, you could still operate the boat to port with the remaining foils. The IFC foils are made from a very high-grade stainless steel and designed to meet or exceed relevant guidelines for impact and strength.

As water travels through the tunnel and around the foil, a tremendous vortex is created. This force keeps most debris from being trapped in the tunnel or around the foil. Between the pressure of the air moving through the tunnel, and the vortex created in the water, the tunnel and foils will stay clean and clear.

The outboards of the 35 IFC are mounted on a slight outward angle to place the propellers properly to maximize the thrust and flow efficiency created as the water travels through the tunnel and around the foils. This mounting also helps the boat to lean into a corner, much like a monohull.

Firstly, we’d ask, “Why would you want to?” But the short answer is no. IFC is an integrated system that is integral to the design of the boat.

The short answer is that boats with technology similar to IFC have been in use for many years, but not in the recreational market. Commercial and Military applications are quite prevalent. The initial design of a hull and system like this is quite complex and can be cost prohibitive. We at Insetta feel the gains in efficiency, speed, range and ride quality far outweigh the initial design and build cost.

Upon deciding to build a foiling Cat, Insetta assembled a team of naval Architects and Marine Engineers to refine an existing and proven design. Using their own state of the art construction techniques, Insetta brought an application specific version to the fiberglass Center Console market.

Optional Features

Customizable Garmin or Simrad Electronics JL Audio 10 Speaker Stereo System Flush Mount Acrylic Helm Bow Shade Custom Gelcoat or Combination of Colors Deluxe Upholstery Third Center Livewell Under Rear Facing Seat 40 gallon Seadek Flooring or Flexiteek Decking Additional Gunnel Rod Holders (18 standard) Recessed Wireless Phone Chargers Swivel Base Rod Holders Outlets for Electric Reels Additional Drink Holders on Leaning Post, Coffin Box, Gunnels and Helm Forward/Rear/Side Spreader Lights T-Top Outrigger Bases/Poles Gemlux Electric Head With 19 Gallon Blackwater Holding Tank Freshwater Sink and Vanity Inside Console Underwater Lights Heavy Duty Dive Ladder LED Under Gunnel Lighting On-Board Battery Charger Windlass Custom Aluminum Trailer Cockpit Table/Bow Table

Why did Insetta Boatworks decide to build a boat with IFC?

For decades, Hydrofoil power boats have proven to be the most efficient craft for a variety of offshore operations.

While pursuing a B.S. in physics in 1960, Victor Insetta was employed doing anti-submarine research that utilized high speed Deep-V patrol boats equipped with hydrofoils. Their ability to pursue submarines at high speed, operate safely offshore, and, being foil borne: allowed their hull to run clear of the water avoiding direct hits from torpedoes. Decades later, Vic and his family rode comfortably on hydrofoil ferries in Italy, flying over white capped waves in the bay of Naples.

In 2017, The Insetta 45 was chosen to be the official chase boat of the America’s cup! Four 45’ Insetta’s catamarans were shipped to Bermuda to assist at various cup events. Sailboats, competing from several countries, were catamarans with hydrofoils ! The Insetta 45’s ran parallel to these “foiling sail cats” to assist with TV coverage. The sailing cats were traveling at speeds approaching 50 mph, 2 ½ times the wind speed . Efficient … you bet . They could also turn on a dime at over 40 mph…

It became obvious: that a foiling cat would make a great offshore outboard power boat… Many foil power boat designs in the past, had wide foils that stuck out the sides, increasing their beam and draft. It made them difficult to dock, and they couldn’t operate in shallow waters. Joel Shine (chief operating officer) of Insetta Boatworks found a catamaran design that had hydrofoils mounted in the tunnel, (that location between the tunnel walls actually improves their efficiency), and does not add to its draft. Further improvements could be added by using our ultra-light high strength infused composite construction.

Joel, Vic and our technical staff reviewed the foiling cat’s initial specifications and performance data, and then sea trialed two foiling cats with internal hydrofoils. Our staff includes a second physicist and pilot… Glen Dobbs. We are all active boaters and we determined we would build our version of a foiling outboard powered cat. We contacted a Naval architect, who designed several successful foiling power cats . He is now a member of our technical staff.

Our 35 “foiling cat” design has set the standard for Foil-Assisted Sportfishing boats. The hull, foils, materials, and engines are synergistically combined, to provide: unrivaled high-speed cruising efficiency , and provide safe offshore handling, with unimpeded shallow water operation, including beaching, without foils or props contacting the bottom.

Insetta 35IFC

The premier internal foiling catamaran.

Integrated 36 Gallon Livewells & 625 QT Coffin Box Standard

Designed to fish.

850+ Mile Range!

Best in Class MPG, Smoother/Dryer Ride!

Performance.

Click the button below to contact or email us for more info!

Latest News

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The Foiling Press – February 2024 – February was a busy month for…

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We kicked off the year with a full house here at Insetta Boatworks! Three beautiful 35IFC’s in…

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Are Power Catamarans Good In Rough Water?

By Robert Bowman | Posted On May 02, 2023 Updated On May 03, 2023

Anyone that's ever been caught on the water when a summer storm rolls up and the wind starts to blow has experienced a choppy ride back to the dock. Some boat builders perform better than others. Some types of boats perform better than others. While a little chop in a 40-foot center-console might not mean too much to the captain and guests on board, those in a luxury yacht might feel differently. Expensive furniture, cutlery, glassware, luggage, and whatever isn't secured down can often be tossed around the interior, leaving a mess for the captain or crew to clean up. 

If you're searching for the right boat to keep things stable while on the ocean, the old adage of two is better than one definitely applies. Multihull boats are widely known to be a more stable platform while cruising, along with several other benefits. And the growth of ownership and popularity has substantially increased as well, with catamaran sales expected to rise to more than $2.2 billion by 2030 ! Many sailboat owners are beginning to ditch the effort it takes to enjoy boating and opting instead for power catamarans .

But are power catamarans really good in rough water? Certified professional yacht broker and power catamaran expert Brian Franc says "Yes!". "Based on my experiences and those of my clients, power catamarans perform very well in rough water," says Brian. "Multihull boats tend to be far more stable than monohulls due to the displacement across a much wider beam. This allows less water to be in contact with the twin hulls, offering more buoyancy." The result is that the power catamaran goes over the waves instead of through them, increasing stability and safety in rougher waters.

(Below: While this Freeman Boat has a multihull design, it uses outboards instead of traditional power cat inboard diesel engines. The performance of the hull is still the same though, as seen here while going through rough seas at Haulover Inlet.)

OTHER BENEFITS OF THE POWER CATAMARAN DESIGN

Aside from the advantage of being a very stable boat, the power catamaran design also has several other benefits for the owner in terms of performance. Of course, if you get any boat into 10-foot waves, there are going to be major problems, but we are assuming no one is going to be out boating in those conditions. For the purpose of answering the question of how power cats perform in rough seas, we are assuming waves of 6-feet or less.

Here are several other advantages that power catamarans have over traditional monohull boats.

• Power Cats Have Less Draft - Want to cruise the islands? Better be careful in traditional monohull yachts that have more of a draft. Because catamarans rely on buoyancy from their dual hulls, they require less water to float and sit higher on the water.
• Faster Than Sailboats, Sailing Cats, & Some Monohull Yachts - If you're moving into a power catamaran from a sailboat or a sailing catamaran, the twin engines will be a welcomed feature. Being able to get up to a 20 knots cruise means outrunning storms!
• Catamarans Are Easier To Maneuver - Thanks to being lighter in weight and having dual engines, maneuvering in rough seas or in a crowded area (like at a marina) becomes a little easier for a power catamaran owner. Add in the latest joystick technology and you can cruise with confidence.
• Power Catamarans Are More Fuel Efficient - Burn less fuel and spend less money with a power catamaran. Thanks to less drag and resistance, along with no sudden spikes in fuel consumption, power cats are well-known to be more efficient.
• Massive Accommodations And Living Spaces - Let's face it, you can simply do more with more space and it's tough to match the interior volume of a boat with a 20-foot beam or more. Power Catamarans are known for incredible space in the bedrooms, as well as the salon and galley.

(Below: The interior of this Aquila Boats 54, listed with Brian Franc, offers a tremendous amount of volume thanks to its 25' 2" beam.)

WHAT ARE THE DOWNSIDES TO OWNING A POWER CATAMARAN?

Easily the biggest downside to owning a power catamaran has nothing to do with its design, performance, or accommodations. It's where to put it. Most marinas have very limited space on where they can tie up a boat with a 25' beam as it takes up significantly more space than a monohull. Generally power catamarans are put at the end of the T-dock, which means there are less spaces available. Of course, if you are buying a power catamaran and putting it behind your house or into a charter program, this doesn't matter, but if you plan to rent a space at a marina, we suggest you work with your yacht broker to find storage.

(Below: Brian Franc's Aquila 54 - not in rough water, but looking good nonetheless.)

United Yacht Sales has the world's largest network of boat buyers and sellers in the industry, thanks to our team of over 250 yacht brokers in 104 different locations. Whether buying a luxury boat or selling one, we have the right expert on staff to assist you in navigating the brokerage market for your type of yacht. If you're looking at selling a boat, there is no quicker way to get activity than listing it with United. Our entire team is immediately notified every time a listing agreement is made with United Yacht Sales and many boats are sold before they ever even make it online. Our support team is among the best in the industry at marketing your yacht. 100% of our marketing budget goes towards advertising our clients' listings, a claim not many other firms can make. To get started listing your yacht, fill out our online form What's My Yacht Worth ?

Also Read: Who Makes The Best Power Catamaran?

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Power Catamarans: A Complete Guide

Dec 06, 2023

less than a min

Power Catamarans, often termed as the epitome of modern maritime engineering, are gaining popularity for all the right reasons. Their distinct design, enhanced stability, and cruising efficiency set them apart from traditional monohull boats and even their sail-driven counterparts. This guide dives into the world of Power Catamarans, shedding light on their advantages and how they compare to other vessels like monohulls and trimarans.

Historical Prelude:

The concept of catamarans traces its roots back to ancient maritime cultures. However, the power catamaran is a relatively modern innovation that marries the traditional twin-hull design with powerful engines, offering a unique blend of speed, stability, and space.

Distinguishing Design:

Power Catamarans are characterized by their twin hulls, which significantly reduce the drag, thus enhancing speed and fuel efficiency. Unlike monohulls, they have a broader beam, which contributes to increased stability and more living space. The absence of a ballast for stability further lightens the vessel, contributing to its speed and fuel economy

Speed and Handling:

One of the significant advantages of power catamarans is their speed and handling. The twin hulls allow for a smoother glide over the water, making them particularly favorable for watersports enthusiasts. Their handling in rough waters is superior to monohulls, thanks to the inherent stability provided by the dual-hull design.

The stability of power catamarans is unparalleled, especially when compared to monohulls. The wide beam and twin hulls provide a stable platform, reducing the rocking and rolling common in monohulls. This stability is not only comforting in rough seas but also crucial when docking or anchoring.

Comfort and Space:

The spacious design of power catamarans offers homelike livability, with ample room for cabins, lounges, and even onboard amenities like grills and bars. The wide beam also allows for large deck spaces, ideal for sunbathing or enjoying the scenic ocean vistas.

Economy and Redundancy:

Power catamarans are economical, with fuel efficiency being one of their selling points. The redundancy built into their design, with separate engines for each hull, provides an added layer of safety, ensuring that the vessel can return to shore even if one engine fails.

Regular Upkeep and Care:

Power catamarans, given their unique design and structure, come with their own set of maintenance requirements. Like all boats, routine checks and upkeep are essential to ensure smooth sailing. The twin hull design means double the underwater gear – from propellers to rudders, which necessitates regular inspections for any signs of wear, tear, or fouling.

Antifouling:

Given that power catamarans have a larger surface area underwater due to their twin hulls, they may be more susceptible to marine growth. Regular antifouling treatments can help in keeping the hulls clean, ensuring optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Engine Maintenance:

One distinct advantage of power catamarans is their dual-engine setup, but this also means double the engine maintenance. Regular oil changes, cooling system checks, and filter replacements are crucial. It's beneficial to synchronize maintenance schedules for both engines to ensure consistent performance.

The lifespan of a power catamaran largely depends on its build quality, materials used, and how well it's maintained. With proper care, a power catamaran can last for several decades. The engine's maintenance significantly impacts the catamaran's lifespan, with gasoline engines requiring maintenance at 1,200 to 1,800 hours and diesel engines at around 5,000 hours​​. The construction materials play a crucial role; for instance, fiberglass catamarans, when well-maintained, can last for many decades, while aluminum cats might change ownership after 10-15 years but can last a lifetime with proper care​.

World-Renowned Builders:

The power catamaran sector boasts several reputable manufacturers such as Lagoon, Leopard Catamarans, Fountaine Pajot, and other notable names like Seawind Catamarans​.

Lagoon, a revered name under the Beneteau Group umbrella, has carved its niche in crafting luxurious, spacious catamarans. A prime example is the Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht, embodying opulence with its nearly 250 sq. ft. aft deck and 900 sq. ft. interior, comfortably housing up to 12 guests. Known for its superyacht styling, it boasts superior fuel efficiency and a commendable average velocity-made-good of 9 knots.

Leopard Catamarans:

Emerging from the reputable Robertson and Caine shipyard in South Africa, Leopard Catamarans is synonymous with innovation and efficiency. The Leopard 53 Powercat is a testament to this legacy, showcasing excellent seakeeping abilities, offering 3 or 4 cabin configurations, and achieving a top speed of 25 knots.

Fountaine Pajot:

A trailblazer since 1976, Fountaine Pajot constantly redefines catamaran design. The Fountaine Pajot MY6 is a shining example, encapsulating the brand's visionary ethos. Stretching 15 meters, the MY6, equipped with dual engines of up to 2 x 353 Kw and 2 x 480 hp, promises dynamic sailing. Crafted meticulously by Pier Angelo Andreani, the interior mirrors a 20-meter monohull's spaciousness, reflecting modern aesthetics and comfort that stand as a benchmark in the Motor Yacht world.

These manufacturers continue to innovate, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency in their power catamaran models, making them a popular choice among maritime enthusiasts.

Comparing with Monohulls and Trimarans:

While monohulls are traditional and often cheaper, they lack the stability and space offered by power catamarans. On the other hand, trimarans, with three hulls, provide even more stability but at the cost of additional drag and less interior space.

TheBoatDB - Your Gateway to Maritime Exploration:

If you’re looking to delve deeper into the world of power catamarans and other vessels, TheBoatDB offers a comprehensive boat database. Explore various catamaran models, compare them with monohulls, trimarans, and other types of boats, and make an informed decision on your next maritime adventure.

In summary, power catamarans encapsulate a modern engineering marvel in the maritime domain. Their blend of speed, stability, comfort, and economy makes them an attractive option for a broad spectrum of boaters. Whether you are a long-distance cruiser, a water sport enthusiast, or someone who cherishes the tranquility of the sea, a power catamaran could be the vessel that transforms your maritime adventures into unforgettable experiences.

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• Paddle Board

A Guide to Power Catamaran Boats

If you’re into offshore fishing or water sports, the Power Catamaran or “multi-hull powerboat” offers you a great option for your first vessel. These powerboats provide you an excellent combination of performance, stability, and maneuverability.

These boats have a catamaran design, relying on two hulls to float the vessel instead of the typical deep-V hull found on other powerboat models. The multi-hull powerboat is ideal for cruising, and you can set it up for fishing or watersports as well.

With the multi-hull powerboat, you get options for multiple fishing stations over each hull without disrupting the boat’s balance on the water. They are ideal for use in lakes and estuaries, and they excel on the open ocean.

These boats come in lengths ranging from 16 to 30-feet, with plenty of customizable options and accessories. Typically, you get a stern-drive or outboard motor configuration, with center consoles for the driver and loads of storage space onboard.

These boats can carry from six to eight passengers easily, and most models will fit on trailers. This post gives you all the information you need on selecting the right multi-hull powerboat to suit your aquatic needs.

What Is a Multi-Hull Powerboat?

The multi-hull powerboat features a catamaran design, with two hulls running down the boat’s length, featuring a gap between the two. This configuration makes the boat exceptionally stable at higher speeds, allowing fast movement through choppy water inshore or offshore.

The catamaran might seem like a niche boat design. However, it offers you several advantages on the water, such as a smooth ride, stability, and economy. These boats come in a wide range of designs and lengths, with the smallest versions measuring around 12-feet, and the largest extending up to 70-feet or longer.

The longer vessels come with liveaboard facilities and all the amenities you need to spend days out on the water. We like to think of the multi-hull powerboat as the catamaran design of the cabin cruiser or cuddy cabin boat. You get all the same advantages as these models but with an added performance on the water.

You get plenty of options for live wells, rod holders, gear storage, and integrated coolers for drinks and fish. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or just going out for the day, the multi-hull powerboat is a great choice for your ocean-going excursion.

While the catamaran model is the most popular choice in this category, there are models featuring a tri-hull design. Typically, these vessels cater more towards fishing than performance or watersports, offering slightly less steering maneuverability than the dual hull setup. However, the addition of the third hull brings superior stability to the boat, making them ideal for fishing in choppy water or cruising from island to island on rougher seas.

The ripple hull models typically feature more liveaboard space, with some models having multiple separate living areas beneath the deck.

Benefits of Multi-Hull Powerboats

The Multi-hull powerboat offers you plenty of advantages for fishing, cruising, and watersports. Here are our top reasons for adding this boat to your shortlist of considerations.

Speed and Handling

The multi-hull boat relies on two separate hulls contacting the water. As a result, there is less drag from the hull when cutting through the water. You get faster speeds than you do with a mono-hull design and excellent handling with tight turning circles. These boats do well on open water, allowing for superior stability in rough waters when fishing offshore.

Dynamic Cruising

The multi-hull powerboat features dynamic cruising capability. These boats are most popular with recreational users that want to cruise down the coastline on the weekend or take a few days out on the water for a fishing trip. The built-in accommodations in many designs make it suitable for staying out on the water overnight.

Stability and Performance

Multi-hull powerboats can come with several engine configurations. The motors on these boats offer excellent performance, propelling the watercraft up to speeds of 50 to 80-mph, depending on the model. They also make suitable watersports boats, allowing for skiing and wakeboarding.

Plenty of Storage

The multi-hull boat offers you more storage capability than mono-hull models. You get loads of storage room above and below deck for your dive gear or fishing equipment. There is under-seat storage, and the v-berths in the bow of these models can include plenty of amenities.

Center Console Design

The center console driver configuration is common with the multi-hull performance boat. This driver position gives you more control over the vessel when turning. Some consoles may position closer to the bow or aft of the boat, depending on the length and design features of the boat.

Hardtop Designs

Most multi-hull powerboats come equipped for long ocean-going trips. As a result, they may have a covered driver cockpit leading to below deck accommodations or storage facilities. Some models have wraparound cockpits with doors sealing the cabin, allowing for air conditioning inside the boat on hot days. Other models come with an open plan design and a hard roof.

Trailerable

Most models of multi-hull power bats range from 16 to 24-feet, but there are plenty of longer models. The shorter lengths are easy to trailer, allowing for easy removal for the water and transportation. However, some models may be wider than 10-feet, requiring a special license to operate the loaded trailer. Check with your local authorities for trailer regulations and laws.

Fishing and Watersports Capability

These boats are excellent fishing vessels, offering you plenty of stability for casting on any side of the boat. The center console design means you have walkways on either side of the console, allowing the angler to chase the fish around the boat if it decides to drag the line. Most models also feature setups for watersports like wakeboarding, with T-tower bars or Bimini tops for higher tow points.

Outboard or Stern Motors

The multi-hull powerboat comes with a design for performance out on the water. As a result, these boats usually feature outboard motors with capacities ranging from 150-HP to 450-HP. Some models may use dual-motor setups or stern-mounted motors that hide out of sight.

Multiple Sizing Options

As mentioned, the multi-hull boat comes in a variety of lengths to suit your requirements. Whether you need a large boat for spending days out on the water or a simple day fishing vessel, there’s a multi-hull design to suit your requirements.

Disadvantages of Multi-Hull Powerboats

While the multi-hull powerboat is a flexible design suited for cruising, fishing, or water sports, it does come with a few drawbacks.

Large Engines and More Fuel

These boats feature design and construction for speed, with large outboard motors. As a result, they are somewhat heavy on fuel, especially with a large-capacity dual-motor setup.

Top Multi-Hull Powerboat Models

You have plenty of choices when selecting your multi-hull powerboat. Here are some of our top picks for the best models available.

Calcutta 480

This multi-hull powerboat has a 51-foot length, and it’s ideal for offshore use, providing exceptional stability thanks to the size and the 17-foot beam. It’s one of the largest models available, featuring world-class multi-hull design.

You get a spacious deck with a center console configuration and enough room to walk down either side of the boat when fishing. The dual hull provides exceptional stability combined with the long length, and you get options for diesel-powered or gasoline engines in outboard or in-stern setup to suit your requirements.

The Calcutta brand custom-builds boats for its clients. You get options for fully enclosed bow areas and fishing-style cabins with a roomy helm deck and a sleeping berth included in the bow. You also have an enclosed head for ablutions, but there is no option for a shower.

This model comes with an enclosed cockpit and air conditioning to keep you cool when cruising. The motors on this boat are monsters, featuring a twin setup of 550-HP Cummins diesel inboards available on the sports version for superior power and speed on the water while maintaining the boat’s maneuverability.

There’s a 600-gallon fuel capacity for the thirsty engines, allowing you to spend days out on the water without running out of fuel.

Insetta 35 IFC Hydrofoil

The Insetta 35 IFC hydrofoil offers you the smooth-sailing benefit of hydrofoils, with premium multi-hull designs. The hydrofoil system generates the lift under the hull, allowing for superior, stable sailing in rough water conditions.

The hydrofoil reduces friction and dragging on the hulls, reducing your fuel consumption by as much as 40% compared to other models with a similar dual hull design. The foil fits between the sponsons, featuring design and construction with stainless steel.

Another interesting design feature with this model is the way the inboard motors have positioning towards each other. This configuration allows for maximum thrust for the propellors on the asymmetrical multi-hull.

The foil and motor setup design also allow for much tighter turns than you get with other multi-hull models, giving you similar performance to what you expect in a mono-hull design.

The boat comes with a large coffin box with 156-gallons of space available and an insulated finish. You get eight rod-holders positioned in the bow and aft of the boat. You also get dual 30-gallon transom live wells and an option for a third below the mezzanine seat.

The Insetta 35 IFC hydrofoil comes with a three-pump sea chest, a folding bait station, and plenty of tackle storage. The boat gets its power and performance from dual Mercury 400 Verados, with the vessel topping out at speeds of 58-mph on open, calm waters.

Invincible 46 Cat

This model is the largest in the Invincible range, and it’s a great choice for offshore fishing. This flagship model comes with a 42-foot length and a center console design for easy driver operation. This multi-hull powerboat relies on a hybrid semi-asymmetrical multi-hull giving it great turning capability and maneuverability out on the open water.

The Invincible 46 Cat features a stepped hull with fast acceleration and plenty of lift. You get a quad engine setup with Mercury 450 Racing outboard motors, and the craft can reach a top-end speed of 78-mph. Other notable features of this boat include a vacuum-infused hull and grid-stringer system for an “invincible” boat that’s virtually unsinkable.

Bali Catspace

If you’re looking for a luxury powercat model, the Bali Catspace Motoryacht is a fantastic – but expensive choice. This model features a design from legendary boat maker Olivier Poncin. This model is a natural cruiser and ideal for the longest ocean-going trips.

The dual hull and high ride height from the water provide exceptional stability for the boat, even in the roughest offshore and coastal waters. The boat comes with a lounge on the deck, and there’s plenty of room around the center console cabin to walk the length of the boat on either side of the vessel. The top level of the boat features the captain’s station and wheelhouse, with luxury living quarters underneath.

You get a huge lounge and a v-berth with sleeping quarters for spending the night out on the water. The cockpit presents the captain with a 360-degree view of the water, and the high riding position gives you a view of the ocean that extends for miles.

The boat comes with all the amenities you need, including tables, a full kitchenette, and luxury sleeping accommodations. There are plenty of entertainment options for TVs and stereo systems down below, with an optional hardtop Bimini.

The Bali Catspace Motoryacht receives its power from a single or dual engine setup featuring 150-HP or 250-HP Yamaha motors.

Wrapping Up

With so much variety available in multi-hull powerboats, you have options for any activity out on the water. These boats are more common in coastal waters, and they make excellent fishing vessels.

Decide on the model that suits your activity, as most have a purpose-built design for fishing, watersports, or cruising. There are plenty of customization options, so make sure you keep a budget in mind as the additions can cost more than 20% of the boat’s initial sticker price, increasing your costs.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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Trends 2020: Ten Top Power Cats

All of a sudden, it seems, power catamarans are taking center stage in the U.S. cruising community. You now see them almost everywhere, and more and more people are talking about them at boat shows, on blogs, and on the docks. It’s easy to see why.

Most obvious, is that power cats offer space – a lot of it. The salons resemble living rooms at home, with all the comforts of home. The decks are filled with lounging, dining, entertaining and private areas everywhere – on the foredeck, the aft deck, up on the flybridge, often even down in the beach club. With beams often equal to half the boat’s length, the cats have room for everything.

Then there’s the efficiency of the platform. The twin hulls, broadly spaced, are designed to run on top of the water, rather than through it, like displacement hulls. (I’ve driven a Maine 47 Power Cat in four- to five-foot seas in the Bahamas where the ride would not have been nearly as comfortable in a monohull.) And power cats are often more fuel efficient than same-size monohulls.

One thing I think people tend to overlook is that power cats offer more privacy (while also providing more social spaces). This is particularly true in the sleeping areas, where the owner and guest cabins can be separated into the two hulls. But even in the salon, or on the outer decks, the sheer amount of extra room means that most people can find their own private space if they want it.

The growing popularity of power cats follows that of sailing cats around the world. At first, power cats were popular in Europe (largely because of the French builders) and the Far East. But then they were introduced into large charter fleets, particularly The Moorings (Leopard) and MarineMax Vacations (Aquila). People tried them there, liked them, and brought their enthusiasm back home with them.

Here’s our look at ten top power cats that we’ve covered recently. (You also can keep up to date on power cats in our sister publication, Multihulls Today http://multihullstoday.com )

Aquila just announced that it’s building a new 54-foot cruiser for its large, worldwide catamaran fleet, and it is designed for maximum comfort inside and out. The full-beam master stateroom is forward, for example, with panoramic views from hull side windows; it takes advantage of the cat’s more than 25-foot beam to make it a special place underway or at an anchorage.

The 54 will debut later this year, and we’ll have more details later on as well. But what we know now is that the boat will have three-, four- or even five-cabin configurations, plus a possible skipper’s quarters and an optional galley-down layout. The galley-down takes the place of the fifth cabin, but it provides more room in the already massive salon, adding a formal dining area plus an extra seating lounge.

The salon has large tempered glass side windows for maximum natural light, and a deep, comfortable lounge. The aft cockpit has a separate dining area next to an indoor/outdoor bar. The large swim platform is made for easy access to water sports. It also supports a tender on solid mounting blocks. The flybridge can be open or complete enclosed and climate controlled.

To make life easy on board, the Aquila 54 has lots of counter space, a full-size refrigerator, a water-maker and a washer and dryer. Aquilas are built by Sino Eagle in China, and are sold to private buyers and also put into the MarineMax Vacations charter fleet. The Aquila fleet itself now has 32-, 36- and 44-foot models; a new 70 is scheduled for later this year.

Dave Bigge, the VP of Aquila International, says the list of standard features on the 54 “will impress anyone familiar with vessels of this size. Performance, another hallmark of the Aquila brand, will allow for high-speed travel and slower, more efficient, extended cruising ranges.”

Specs.: LOA: 54’2”; Beam: 25’2”; Draft: 4’6”; Disp.: 52,367 lbs.; Fuel: 581 gals.; Water: 238 gals.; Power: NA.   https://www.aquilaboats.com/models/power-catamaran/54

Just launched, the Aspen Power Catamarans 35-foot C108, powered by asymmetrical Yamaha outboards, hit a top speed of 25 knots and a fuel-efficient cruising speed of 19 knots, producing 2 mpg.

Larry Graf, Aspen’s founder and “chief adventurer,” designed the new Aspen so it could be trailered to new cruising grounds. It has a beam of 10 ’8” and a combined boat and trailer weight of 12,500 pounds, so it could be towed by a ¾ ton pickup.

Like all Aspens, the new C108 has the company’s patented non-symmetrical hulls and power to help with exceptional tracking, fuel efficiency and performance in heavy seas. The boat has a 200-hp Yamaha in the larger starboard hull, and a 115-hp Yamaha in the smaller port hull.

The new salon is larger than in previous Aspens, and has a five-person dinette, a 12-foot long galley, and wrap-around windows. Below, the new cat has room for a master with a king-sized bed, two smaller guest cabins, and a large head with shower.  http://aspenpowercatamarans.com

CAPE POWERCATS 35

Taking advantage of two trends, the increasing popularity of power catamarans and the explosive growth of outboard power, Cape Powercats is introducing its new 3500, and it comes in either a center console or a pilothouse version. And you can customize either one to fit your cruising lifestyle.

The good news is that the new Cape Powercats use the same hull as the one on the Buzzards Bay 34 power cat that received rave reviews when it was launched in 2010. When I was talking to JP Skov, a partner in Northstar Yacht Sales in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, who’s handling Cape Powercats, I realized that I actually had tested the Buzzards Bay back then, on a lousy afternoon, heading out from Falmouth on Cape Cod to cruise over to Martha’s Vineyard on three-to-four-foot lumpy seas.

I remembered at the time that the cat performed admirably, giving a relatively smooth ride without the pounding that I had expected. It turned easily and remained almost flat, and when we could find a stretch of decent water it produced an upper-30-knot top speed.

Chris White, of Chris White Designs in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, drew that boat for Russell Hunt’s Multihull Development Inc. White had been designing multihulls for about three decades, and he got this one right.

The Buzzards Bay, and now the Cape Powercat, also are designed for the way many people use their boats today. The cats provide comfortable, fast, enjoyable coastal cruising with a lot of space for their length. The 12’ 7” beam means there’s room for everyone, or everything, you want to take along for a day, weekend or even a week on the water; a cat simply offers much more volume for its size than a comparable monohull.

But the real appeal is in the ride. The Cape Powercat has slender displacement hulls with a fine entry and full after sections. The boats accelerate quickly, track easily and they don’t pound. The deck between the hulls on the Buzzards Bay didn’t slam or make any noise while cutting through the waves and spray; the boat has a tall tunnel and ramped underbody.

“The ride of a Chris White-designed power catamaran is one of the best and most sea-kindly I have ever experienced,” says Skov. The lines of the boat are clean, functional and appealing. Skov says that a carbon beam aft gives the strength to deliver a wide-open platform with the cockpit and the helm deck all on the same level. “This feature has allowed us to deliver a boat to a client that is wheelchair-bound,” he said. ‘It also allows us to offer customizable layouts depending on the client’s boating style.”

Specs.: LOA: 37’7”; Beam: 12’7”; Draft: 1’6”; Disp.: 10,000 lbs.; Fuel: 300 gals.; Water: 60 gals.; Power: 2×300-hp outboards. http://capepowercats.com

FOUNTAINE PAJOT 67

Fountaine Pajot just launched its Power 67 flagship, and the big French cat is now on its way to Greece; it’s off Gibraltar in the picture at top. The Power 67 is a long-range, blue-water cruiser with massive social and entertaining areas, and its lines show off Fountaine Pajot’s usual elegant and innovative design.

The flybridge is covered by a hardtop with a sunroof, and it extends aft to protect the cockpit and port and starboard to cover the side decks. The teak swim platform lowers for access to the water, while the cockpit has several sunbathing areas, a grill and a dining table. Glass doors open fully to the salon; it’s built for entertaining, and it’s filled with natural light from windows all around.

The cat’s 32-feet-plus beam provides enough space for comfortable living and entertaining  at sea or at the dock. There’s definitely room for a crowd. The Power 67 come in two versions: The Classic version, with the galley up on the port side of the salon with a large L-shaped lounge to starboard. In the Lounge version, the galley is down, but there’s a bar in the salon and another large L-shaped sofa on the port side.

With the galley down, the boat has the owner’s suite plus three double cabins in the twin hulls below; all the cabins have their own heads with showers. With the galley up, the accommodations include the owner’s suite plus four double cabins.

Fountaine Pajot calls the owner’s suite a private apartment, with good reason. The apartment has a sofa, a dressing room, a walk-in shower and twin vanities. It also has a private door leading to the massive foredeck, with several lounging areas and an optional Jacuzzi..

Standard power comes from twin 300-hp diesels; twin 435-hp diesels are optional. Range with the larger engines is 1,700 nm.

Specs.: LOA: 64’6”; Beam: 32’2”; Draft: 3’8”; Disp.: 31.5 tons; Fuel: 1,057 gals.; Water: 277 gals.; Power: 2×300-hp; option: 2×435-hp.  http://fountainepajot.com

I thought I’d take a quick tour of the new Horizon 65 Power Catamaran during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where it was just launched. Then I realized there’s no such thing as a quick tour of this boat. It’s huge. It’s luxurious. It has beautiful woodwork – as in the curved railing on the stairs from the salon to the skylounge; it’s like a work of art. You don’t just glance at it and look away. You want to get up close and personal.

I forgot about the quick tour and settled in to enjoy this new cat, hull number one of Horizon’s 65 PC series, a boat that combines the best aspects of a high-end motoryacht with the stability, efficiency, performance – and space – of a large cruising catamaran. Horizon builds its boats per the owners’ specifications. The 65 comes with either four en suite staterooms (two with king berth, two with queens), or three en suite staterooms with crew’s quarters. The twin hulls provide enough space so that these are all large, comfortable and filled with light from hullside windows.

And this cat performs. Powered by standard twin 850-hp CAT diesels, it tops out at 26-plus knots, and has a cruising speed of 22 knots. Range at cruising speed is 500 nm.

Stuart Hegerstrom, the co-founder of The PowerCat Company, which distributes Horizon power cats, said the hull design is the result of long-term research and tank testing. “We are in the enviable position of being at the leading edge of the power catamaran revolution,” he said. The symmetrical, semi-displacement hull was designed by Lavranos Marine Design of New Zealand, and it has a sophisticated planing wedge that provides a stable, soft and level ride, even in rough conditions.

The first thing you notice when you climb on the new Horizon is the cockpit: It’s huge (the boat has a 24’ 6” beam) and it’s luxurious enough to be at home on a megayacht. There’s a curved settee across the transom, a high-gloss centered dining table, a wet bar and fridge, and enough space to hold a crowd. Indeed, at a media event there I counted 21 people in the cockpit, and there was room to spare.

Horizon customizes the interiors to fit the owner’s wishes. The wife of this boat’s owner (it’s his third Horizon) is a chef, so the galley, with counterspace that stretched on forever, is dominant in the salon. Up top, the skylounge (the boat also comes in a plain flybridge configuration) also is huge. Twin Stidd helm chairs are forward, then there’s another wet bar with stools to port, plus a day head aft; a large L-shaped settee is aft to starboard. The boat deck all the way aft is large enough for a  good-sized dinghy and any assortment of water toys.

The 65 is built for owner/operators, liveaboards or the charter trade. Richard Ford, the other co-founder of the Powercat Company, said “the PC 65 allows you to own a boat with larger engines, more fuel for longer-range cruising, and ticks the box of a well-appointed fourth cabin. For owners who choose to put their PC 65 into our charter program, it also offers comfortable crew accommodations.”

Horizon offers a management program for owners who want to put their boat in charter when they’re not using it. Part of the charter program is a try-before-you-buy offer, Ford said, where a potential customer can charter the boat for about 1 percent of its price before he makes a final decision. The base price of the new 65, Ford said, is about $3.9 million. The charter price for a week is $35,000. “We’ve sold so many yachts to people who charter before they buy,” he said. The Horizon power cat fleet ranges from 52 to 74 feet.

Specs: LOA: 65’1”; Beam: 24’6”; Draft: 5’3”; Disp.: 111,250 lbs.; Fuel: 1,500 gals.; Water: 300 gals.; Power: 2×850-hp CAT C12-9. http://horizoncatamarans.com

LAGOON SEVENTY 8

The flagship of the Lagoon motor yacht fleet, the new, luxurious, long-range Lagoon Seventy 8 will be introduced at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September and then shown in the U.S. later in the year. The company says the idea behind the massive 78-foot-long cruiser with a 36-foot beam is to compete in the top end of the world-wide motor yacht market.

The Seventy 8 will emphasize comfort, luxury and seaworthiness. The cat’s twin hulls provide stability and space, while the three-foot draft gives the boat access to shallow bays and coves around the world. We don’t have details yet, but the interior spaces will be large for living aboard and entertaining, while the lines and proportions have been drawn to give the boat a timeless elegance. The exterior was designed by Patrick Le Quement; the interiors by Nauta Design.

Part of the Beneteau Group, Lagoon has made more than 3,000 large sailing catamarans over the years, while recently entering the powerboat marketplace. Made in Bordeaux, France, the Lagoon Seventy 8 is a motor yacht version of Lagoon’s Seventy 7 sailboat.    http://themultihullgroup.com/lagoon-78-my

LAZZARA 70, 85

For all the obvious reasons, Lazzara has just changed the name of its new line of luxury catamarans from Corona to Lazzara Catamarans. It’s building the first two models, a 70 and an 85, in Turkey. And they’re both meant to be head-turning statements of space, light and design.

The 85 (pictured above) is simply a larger version of the 70, but its size emphasizes the enormous parts of the yacht that open for light and air and entertaining on both the lower accommodations deck and the upper salon deck, plus the open flybridge protected under a canopy hardtop.

The lower deck takes advantage of the cat’s 35-foot beam to create a master suite that stretches from one side to the other, and then features balconies that fold out for sunbathing or enjoying a private breakfast or evening cocktail on the water. Open them both and you can enjoy a sea breeze and probably one of the largest private suites on anything smaller than a superyacht. There are four other cabins on the same deck, each designed to be an elegant use of space and light; they don’t have the fold-out balconies, but they do have long strips of glazing to connect them to the views outside.

On the main deck, the salon has three walls of sliding glass that open to port, starboard and aft. There’s an indoor dining area and game table to port, an L-shaped bar and lounge area, and a central U-shaped sofa and counter seating forward.

The flybridge has another dining area, this one al fresco, plus a bar, sun lounges and a Jacuzzi tub. The foredeck is a massive, full-beam social area, with seating and sun lounges.

The Lazzara’s beach club is striking, even given the dramatic lines of the cat from any angle. Sweeping stairways are on both sides of the teak aft deck, embracing what usually would be called a swim platform, for easy access to swimming, watersports and entertaining. The beach club has shaded seating and large-screen TVs, and it’s big enough to hold a 26-foot tender.

Standard power on the Lazzara 85 comes from twin 550-hp Volvos; 1,000-hp Volvos are optional. Top speed with the standard engines is 21 knots; cruising speed is 15 knots.

Specs.: LOA: 85’0”; Beam: 35’0”; Draft: 4’6”; Disp.: 155,000 lbs.; Fuel: 2,500 gals.; Water: 750 gals.; Power: 2×550-hp Volvos. http://lazzaracatamarans.com

Walking through the salon of the Leopard 53, which just made its debut at the Miami show, I was not surprised by the amount of space inside the new power cat. I had expected that; after all, the boat has a beam of more than 25 feet. But I was surprised by the amount of light that beamed in.

There are panoramic windows all around, and the interior décor is all light in color and modern in design, so that it’s both inviting and soothing at the same time. It would be easy to feel at home on this new Leopard; it’s simply begging to head off on a long cruise.

The Leopard 53 PC replaces the Leopard 51, one of the most popular cruising cats ever made, with 135 sold. And the 53 is not only larger; it’s also more comfortable, more efficient, and more stable.

You can walk on via a large teak swim platform and then go up teak stairs on either side of the transom to the large aft deck, which is meant for relaxing and entertaining. An L-shaped settee and table are on the port side; a sun pad, big enough for two, is to starboard.

Large sliding glass doors open wide to the salon; the aft deck and the salon are on the same level, so the outside and inside spaces flow together. The galley is aft, and it’s split. A home-sized fridge and freezer and a sink are on the port side; the stove and microwave and a generous countertop are to starboard.

Moving forward, lounges are on each side, and the helm seat on the starboard side is wide enough to fit two people. A centered glass door opens to the foredeck; it has large sun lounges on each side.

Up top, the flybridge is protected by a hardtop. The upper helm is to starboard, and it can seat two people. A seat for three people is to port. A bit aft, also on the port side, is a large U-shaped settee and table. A large sun pad is farther aft.

The accommodations deck below comes in two versions. The Leopard 53, for sale to private owners, has three cabins. The Leopard 534, which is placed in charter by The Moorings, has four. In either one, the twin hulls of a cat provide a degree of privacy for the cabins that is not usually found in a monohull.

I walked through the three-cabin boat at the show. It has two cabins, both en suite heads, in the port hull. The owner’s cabin stretches along the starboard side, with the berth and living area aft, the head, with twin sinks, forward, and the separate shower in the bow.

The engine room and machinery spaces on the 53 are aft. Power comes from twin 370-hp Yanmars. They produce a top speed of 25 knots. Running at a cruising speed of 17 knots, the range is 463 nm. But what’s remarkable about this boat is that if you run on one engine, at 6.8 knots, the range climbs to a full 1,995 nm.

All told, the Leopard 53 is an impressive new boat. And that’s not just my opinion. I was on the boat the morning of the second day of the show, and Leopard had already sold three of them.

Specs.: LOA: 53’1”; Beam: 25’2”; Draft: 3’2”; Disp.: 41,070 lbs.; Fuel: 581 gals.; Water: 185 gals. Power: 2×370-hp Yanmar diesels. http://leopardcatamarans.com   http://moorings.com

NAUTITECH 47

In another example of the growth of power cats, Nautitech Catamarans will have the world premiere of its new 47 Power at the Miami International Boat Show. The new boat, from the French company that also makes sailing cats, is powered by twin 225-hp Volvo Penta diesels.

With its fine entry and clean lines, the Nautitech 47 has all the design elements of a contemporary European catamaran. Windows stretch all around the salon, letting in an enormous amount of natural light, while windows in the hull sides admit light to the four cabins below.

The large flybridge, with an upper helm, lounging area and wet bar, is protected by a hardtop, and the flybridge extends far enough aft to protect the deck below. A sun lounge is forward of the flybridge, offering great views of what’s ahead, while there’s another, much larger, sun lounge on the foredeck.

The Nautitech 47 is designed for safe and comfortable cruising. The side railings are high going forward, and the boat’s almost 25-foot beam offers stability in a seaway. The boat draws less than 4 feet, so it can cruise easily in the Bahamas or other areas with shallow water.

The boat can be ordered with three or four cabins, with three or four heads. The salon is designed with warm woodwork, and it houses a lower helm station.

The company says the twin hulls provide a perfect trim at any speed. With an upgrade to twin 300-hp Volvos, top speed is 22 knots; dial back to 8.5 knots, and the range is about 1,000 nm.

Nautitech has been building catamarans in Rochefort, France, on the Bay of Biscay, since 1994.

Specs.: LOA: 46’8”; Beam: 24’9”; Draft: 3’11”; Disp.: 33,075 lbs.; Fuel: 340 gals.; Water: 158 gals.; Power: 2×225-hp Volvo Penta. http://nautitechcatamarans.com

Sunreef Yachts, the luxury builder in Gdansk, Poland, is filling out its power catamaran fleet with the introduction of a new 70 footer. Its lineup already has 60-, 80- and 100-foot models, so the new 70 fills a gap.

Like the previous models, the 70 is elegant, comfortable and seaworthy. The new cat also takes full advantage of its more than 37-foot beam to create enormous spaces for entertaining and living on board. The foredeck, for example, runs full beam and includes a “terrace,” a protected lounging area with sofas, and then an open area all the way forward for various sun lounges.

The two hulls provide options for custom layouts below, starting with two large staterooms on each side, but with more possible staterooms aft and crew quarters in the bows. The galley also can be located aft on the lower deck, as opposed to its more standard location on the port side of the salon.

The 70 has Sunreef’s signature knife-like bows and wraparound windows in the main deck/salon. It also has large opening doors aft in the salon, so it blends seamlessly with the aft deck, which is protected by the overhang from the flybridge. The aft deck also has an al fresco dining space. Wide teak steps lead down to the innovative aft garage and a swim platform that can be raised or lowered hydraulically for the launching of a dinghy or jet ski.

Up top, the flybridge has enough space for a spa pool, a bar, a dining area, lounging area, and the upper helm with a three-person seat. The hardtop includes an opening sun roof.

Sunreef is offering multiple power options for the 70, ranging from twin 300-hp diesels to twin 850-hp diesels.

Specs.: LOA: 69’9”; Beam: 37’2”; Draft: NA; Disp.: NA; Fuel: 3,170 gals.; Water: 422 gals.; Power: 2×300-hp diesels up to 2×850-hp diesels.  http://sunreef-yachts.com

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Best power catamarans: 6 of the best models on the market right now

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Power catamarans have become so popular in recent years. Alex Smith talks us through 6 of the most exciting models we've covered in the past 12 months...

With the promise of extra volume stability and running efficiency it’s easy to see why power catamarans have become so popular in recent years.

Established players like Sunreef , Leopard and Lagoon have been joined by new builders like Vandal, Archipelago and Moon Yachts.

Big brands like Prestige have also made them move into twin hulled motorboats in recent years, and the likes of Bluegame and Wider Yachts look set to follow suit.

So with the trend showing no signs of slowing here’s our round-up of some of the most exciting new power catamarans you can buy right now.

Article continues below…

Prestige M48 sea trial review: The smartest multihull on the planet?

Moon power 60 review: is this £3.7m adventure cat the next big thing, 6 of the best power catamarans available right now.

Prestige M48

Prestige’s first ever power catamaran is designed to provide the volume of a 60 footer alongside the running efficiency of a 40 footer, but the way it manages all that onboard space is also quite attractive.

A three-part aft swim platform features a raising central section to help extend the cockpit party out over the water. The foredeck mimics that with freestanding furniture right at the forepeak and between them the saloon includes a big-aft galley, a large port lounge and a compact helm with a handy starboard side door.

From here private stairwells to the forward owner’s cabin and each of the two guest cabins provide plenty of privacy, and the split design of the port ensuite means it works really well as a day head.

In terms of styling the freestanding bow furniture looks a bit odd, and in terms of dynamics the stooping bridge deck does tend to touch down when the swells get beyond a couple of feet.

But if you want an accessible, novice-friendly boat that provides a party platform way out of proportion to its length, the first model in Prestige’s M line has a lot going for it. And if you have the budget, the more recent Prestige M8 is an even more convincing piece of work.

Watch our full sea trial review of the Prestige M48

Moon Power 60

As a modified sailing cat, the Moon Power 60’s beam stands at a massive 53% of its overall length and that has a very clear impact on the inside.

In spite of huge side decks with dual access to the flybridge , the internal saloon occupies an enormous footprint. It’s used for a pair of peripheral seating areas plus a forward door to access a lovely sunken bow lounge.

Visibility from the lower helm is restricted by the big stuts that sit sailboat-style toward the centre of the screen, but performance is pretty impressive: a pair of 3,500L tanks give you a 2,000nm range at 8 knots with a fuel flow of just 3lpm, and if you really want to boost the range there’s plenty of space for extra fuel capacity too.

Up on the flybridge there’s a big symmetrical lounge and a hot tub flanked by sunbeds, and down below the two hulls borrow a bit of inboard space for four ensuite cabins.

The simplistic saloon arrangement, the absence of a day heads, and the sheer masculinity of that styling might prove a bit problematic for some, but if you’re okay with a modified sailing cat, and you’re happy to work with the yard to refine that deck layout, this big imposing long-distance boat is unlike anything else out there.

Watch our full sea trial review of the Moon Power 60

Invincible 33

Invincible is a well-respected American Builder with a strong offshore sports fishing heritage and close links with the US Navy, but it also builds high-performance power catamarans, and this impressive 33-footer is the entry point to that fleet.

It uses quite a narrow beam with asymmetrical chines and spray rails, which enable it to heel into a turn in much the same fashion as a monohull and to ride the chop without spitting clouds of spray over that bow.

Capable of 56 knots with twin 400hp Verado outboards , it can also reportedly achieve cruising economy of just 2.5lpm for a range of around 500nm.

The internal arrangements are also really practical – with high capacity deck drains and an automatic fresh water flushing system for the outboards you can simply hose this boat down after a trip and get on with your day.

The fuss-free fit out includes multiple bait wells as well as lots of drained, insulated lockers that do a great job as ice chests and storage spaces, and the squared off bow provides lots of seating to supplement the big open deck of that half cockpit.

It might be built with fishing in mind, but as a rapid offshore performance machine, this might just be the perfect power catamaran for monohull lovers.

Watch our yacht tour video of the Invincible 33

Archipelago 47

The Archipelago 47 is a seriously good looking boat. Built from aluminum on the Isle of Wight with design input from commercial specialist Chartwell Marine, its low roofline, reverse screen, wide beams, slender forward hulls, and raised bridge deck give it a seriously potent profile, and that’s precisely what this boat is all about.

The idea is to deliver proper long distance offshore performance alongside a handy turn of pace in a homely fit out, and the Archipelago delivers that.

Built from 8mm hull plating with 6mm topsides, this Category A boat is rated to carry 12 people and sleep up to eight people in four cabins.

Reserving one entire hull for the owner’s suite is a really attractive option, but in all cases headroom is great and huge vertical picture windows provide amazing views from bed level.

The saloon features a large galley and lounge, as well as a raised helm with a shut-off partition for night nav. There are still some design tweaks required, particularly at the helm and the aft end, to maximise this boat’s potential, and if you want a flybridge you’ll need to look toward the Archipelago 52 instead, because on this particular boat that’s not an option.

But with space up top for all kinds of expedition friendly tenders, toys, cranes and solar panels, this tough go anywhere power catamaran has plenty going for it.

Watch our full sea trial review of the Archipelago 47

Vandal Explorer

As a foil-assisted, outboard-powered, flybridge equipped, aluminium power catamaran, the Vandal Explorer is certainly not the mainstream choice, but of course it was never designed to be.

Created by Ben Mennem, who wants to enjoy the sun-drenched waters of the Med, in collaboration with Norwegian designer Espen Oeino, who loves outdoor adventures in the Nordic States, it seems to straddle both camps.

It uses a wide open main deck with skeletal bars rather than rigid bulkheads to keep you properly in touch with the sea. There’s also a big aft platform between the Verado XTO outboards, which operates as a passerelle, and thanks to a ladder and rain shower does a great job for watersports too.

Ahead of the cockpit lounge there’s a big transverse galley tucked inside the shelter of the pilothouse structure, and there’s also a raised full-beam bow cabin with a separate incinerator toilet.

It’s a bit noisy on that main deck when you’re underway and the limited two-berth arrangement of the base boat is likely to compel some people to question its overall practicality.

But as a tough and lightweight 40-knot boat with space for 14 people, a cool off-grid aesthetic and all the custom friendly flexibility you could want, its simplicity is actually a really key part of its appeal.

Watch our full sea trial review of the Vandal Explorer

The Aquila 44 is a proper wide-beam cruising cat

Built at Sino Eagle’s 1million sqft facility in China and developed in collaboration with the renowned J&J Design Group, Aquila is a specialist power catamaran builder and that absolutely shows.

Capable of up to 20 knots with the top rated Volvo Penta D4 420s, the Aquila 44 uses bow bulbs for extra waterline length, a softer ride and improved stability at displacement speeds.

But is the way it uses its 21ft beam that really impresses. In the aft cockpit a convivial c-shape dinette sits opposite a fold-out bar at the aft galley.

At the bow a set of steps connects the foredeck lounge directly to the flybridge, which is great for practicality as well as for large partie, and up top a central walkaround helm pod keeps things more sociable and inclusive than on any other boat in this class.

There’s a proper main deck helm too if you want it, plus sleeping for six in three private ensuite cabins, including a brilliant owner’s cabin that occupies the full beam beneath that foredeck.

If you need extra performance and style you could of course look toward the brand’s smaller, narrow-beamed, outboard-powered sport line, but for proper power catamaran lovers this big, cleverly arranged entertainment platform feels exactly right.

Watch our yacht tour video of the Aquila 44

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Reviewed: Aquila 36

• By Chris Caswell
• Updated: August 15, 2018

When MarineMax approached the Sino Eagle Group, a Chinese boatbuilder, to create the Aquila series of power cats, the yacht sales firm had two goals: The first was to flesh out its MarineMax Vacations bareboat charter fleet in the British Virgin Islands, and the second was to create yachts suitable for private ownership.

Those are, in several ways, seemingly contradictory needs. Charter yachts need to be bulletproof: easy to maintain, easy to repair, easy to use. Private yachts, on the other hand, must be whatever their owners want them to be, even if using them takes a little extra maintenance now and then.

To satisfy both types of boaters, the Aquila line was created, first with a 48-footer and then with a 44-footer. The Aquila 36 is a departure from her sisterships in that she is an outboard-powered, express-cruiser-style catamaran, but she also adheres to MarineMax’s philosophies.

With a single main living level from bow to stern and a beam of 14 feet 7 inches, the Aquila 36 is like a bowrider on steroids. She has seating that can handle 20 adults for outings and barbecues, and there are two staterooms below, one in each hull, for family weekending. The staterooms have nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads, stowage and 6-foot-6-inch headroom.

Up on the main deck, under the optional fiberglass hardtop, are a dinette, cooktop, fridge, sink and smokeless grill. Forward, the seating transforms from benches to sun pads, and the anchor gear is hidden under a hatch with a wired remote control.

Aft, the choices include settees across the transom or a fishing/diving option with a bait tank and tackle station. Twin boarding gates allow for docking, diving or tender access.

The Siblings

Power choices are twin 250, 300 or 350 hp Mercury Verados, with the 350s pushing the Aquila 36 to nearly 35 knots.

A solid dayboat for the family or for fishing, the Aquila 36 is equally adept at weekending with friends.

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Can Catamarans Handle Rough Seas? Here’s What You Need To Know

Are you a boat enthusiast considering investing in a catamaran? Or perhaps you’re an experienced sailor looking to explore more remote destinations? If so, you may be asking yourself, “Can catamarans handle rough seas?” In this article, we’ll dive into the world of catamarans and explore all the details you need to know to be confident in your purchase.

We’ll look at what catamarans are, the benefits they offer, and how they handle rough seas.

Additionally, we’ll discuss how the low center of gravity and shallow draft contribute to their stability and safety, and we’ll compare catamarans to other boat options.

So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Yes, catamarans can typically handle rough seas better than monohulls due to their wide, stable platform.

They also have a shallow draft, which helps them to more easily maneuver through choppy waters.

The multiple hulls also give them greater buoyancy, meaning they can rise up with the waves easier.

However, like any boat, they still need to be handled with care in rough seas and should always be operated with safety in mind.

What Are Catamarans?

Catamarans are two-hulled vessels, usually made of wood, fiberglass, or aluminum, and they are used for recreational sailing and racing.

They are characterized by their two hulls, which are connected together by a platform, providing them with superior stability and maneuverability.

This makes them particularly suitable for navigating choppy waters.

Catamarans also boast a shallow draft, which helps them stay afloat in rougher conditions, as well as a low center of gravity, which helps them remain upright even in rough seas.

The two hulls of a catamaran are usually the same size and shape, and they are typically placed close together to reduce drag and increase speed.

Additionally, catamarans have a wide beam, which gives them an increased stability and helps them stay afloat in rougher waters.

Catamarans are becoming increasingly popular for recreational sailing and racing, thanks to their superior stability and maneuverability.

They are also an ideal choice for those who sail in choppier waters, as their two hulls and wide beam help them stay afloat and remain upright in rougher conditions.

The Benefits of Catamarans

Catamarans are an increasingly popular choice for recreational sailing and racing due to their superior stability and maneuverability.

The two hulls and wide beams of a catamaran give it an edge over other types of boats in rough seas, allowing it to stay afloat and remain upright in choppy waters.

Additionally, catamarans have a low center of gravity, which helps keep them stable and upright in rougher conditions.

These features make catamarans ideal for those who want to sail in rougher waters.

Catamarans also have a shallow draft, which means they dont need as much water to stay afloat.

This allows them to navigate more quickly and easily in shallow and rocky waters.

Additionally, the shallow draft also helps them stay upright in rough seas.

In addition to their superior stability and maneuverability, catamarans also offer more space than other types of boats.

Their two hulls provide plenty of deck space to move around, and their wide beams provide extra room for storage and other amenities.

This makes them great for larger groups or families who want to spend time on the water.

Overall, catamarans are a great choice for those who want to sail in rougher waters.

With their superior stability and maneuverability, shallow draft, and larger deck space, catamarans are well equipped to handle rough seas and provide a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

How Do Catamarans Handle Rough Seas?

When it comes to sailing in rougher waters, catamarans are an excellent choice.

Thanks to their two hulls and wide beams, they are able to handle the choppy waters better than other types of boats.

The two hulls also provide extra stability, as the wide beam helps keep the boat upright in rougher waters.

The shallow draft of catamarans also helps them stay afloat in choppy waters, as the shallow draft allows them to ride over the waves more easily.

Additionally, the low center of gravity of catamarans helps keep them upright in rough seas, as the lower center of gravity makes it easier for them to stay on course.

In addition to their design features, catamarans are also equipped with a number of safety features that make them particularly well-suited for sailing in rougher waters.

These features include a higher freeboard, which helps keep the boat from taking on too much water in choppy waters, as well as a built-in flotation system which helps keep the boat afloat in the event of a capsize.

Catamarans are also designed to offer superior performance in rougher waters.

The two hulls provide increased speed and maneuverability, which makes it easier to navigate the choppy conditions.

The shallow draft also allows the boat to more easily ride over the waves, and the low center of gravity helps keep the boat on course in rougher seas.

Finally, catamarans are also equipped with a number of other features that make them particularly well-suited for sailing in rougher waters.

These include weather-proofing systems to keep the boat dry, reinforced hulls and frames to increase strength and durability, and improved sail systems to maximize performance in choppy conditions.

All in all, catamarans are an excellent choice for those looking to sail in rougher waters.

Thanks to their superior design features, safety features, and performance capabilities, they are well-equipped to handle the choppy waters with relative ease.

If youre looking for a boat that can handle rougher seas, a catamaran is definitely worth considering.

The Low Center of Gravity

When it comes to sailing in rough seas, one of the key advantages of catamarans is their low center of gravity.

This is because the two hulls of a catamaran are typically separated by a wider beam than other types of boats, allowing for a greater weight distribution.

This means that the hulls are better able to stay upright in choppy waters, as the weight is evenly distributed and the boat is not as susceptible to tipping over.

Additionally, catamarans have a shallow draft, meaning they don’t sit too deep in the water and can ride the waves more easily.

This also helps them stay afloat in rougher conditions, as the shallow draft allows the boat to stay on top of the water rather than being pulled down by higher waves.

All these features combine to make catamarans one of the best types of boats when it comes to sailing in rough seas.

The Shallow Draft

When it comes to navigating rough seas, the shallow draft of a catamaran is an important factor.

Catamarans usually have a draft of less than four feet, which helps them stay afloat in choppy waters.

This shallow draft also allows the catamaran to navigate shallow waters more safely than other types of boats, allowing it to travel to areas that are too shallow for other vessels.

Additionally, the shallow draft of the catamaran helps it to avoid hitting submerged objects, and makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

The shallow draft of the catamaran is an important factor that makes it a great choice for navigating rough seas.

Additional Safety Measures For Rough Seas

When sailing in rough seas, it is important to take additional safety measures to ensure a safe trip.

Catamarans are equipped with two hulls and wide beams that allow them to handle the rough seas better than other types of boats, but they still need to be handled with care.

First, it is important to make sure that you have the right equipment for your trip.

This means having a life vest, safety equipment, and a radio onboard, as well as making sure all of your navigation equipment is up to date and functioning properly.

It is also important to have a knowledgeable crew who is familiar with the area and the conditions.

It is also important to be aware of the weather conditions before you set off and to pay attention to any changes in the weather.

It is best to avoid sailing in storms or in areas with heavy winds and waves.

If the weather does become too rough, it is important to turn back and find a safe harbor.

Finally, it is important to be prepared for any emergencies.

Make sure you have a first aid kit onboard and that everyone on board knows the safety protocols.

Knowing how to handle any emergency situation is key to staying safe in rough seas.

Catamarans vs. Other Boats

When it comes to handling rough seas, catamarans have a clear advantage over other types of boats.

This is due to a number of factors, including their two hulls and wide beams, their shallow draft, and their low center of gravity.

First, the two hulls and wide beams of catamarans provide superior stability, which is essential in choppy waters.

This is because the two hulls provide a larger surface area for the waves to push against, making it easier for the boat to remain upright.

Additionally, the wide beams provide a larger platform for the crew to stand and move around safely, helping to reduce the risk of capsizing in rough waters.

Second, the shallow draft of catamarans helps them stay afloat in choppy waters.

The shallow draft allows them to float on top of the waves rather than being pulled down by them, helping to keep the boat steady.

Finally, catamarans have a low center of gravity, which helps keep them upright in rough waters.

Due to the dual hulls and wide beams, the center of gravity of a catamaran is lower than that of a single-hull boat, making them less susceptible to tipping over in rough seas.

All of these factors make catamarans a great choice for sailing in rougher waters.

While they are not immune to rough seas, they are better equipped to handle them than many other types of boats, making them a popular choice for those who sail in rougher waters.

Final Thoughts

Catamarans are a popular choice for sailing in rough seas because of their two hulls, wide beams, shallow draft and low center of gravity.

They can handle choppy waters better than other boats, making them a great option for those who sail in rougher conditions.

To ensure your safety when sailing in rougher waters, be sure to take additional safety measures such as wearing a life jacket and staying aware of your surroundings.

With the right precautions, you can be sure that your catamaran will be able to handle the roughest of seas.

James Frami

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

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Catamaran vs Monohull in Rough Seas: Which is Better?

Catamarans and monohulls have different designs that affect how they handle rough sea conditions. In fact, they have an advantage over each other when sailing in heavy seas. Let's try to compare each type of vessel based on their performance, design, and stability, to help you decide which can give you a safer and more comfortable journey on the open water.

Regarding speed, efficiency, and stability, a catamaran may be the better option for you. Because they have twin hulls, they are more comfortable to sail in rough seas. A monohull can become more advantageous in rough seas when sailing upwind since it can point higher into the wind and can handle strong winds easily.

Catamarans with two rudders also allow for better control and maneuverability in rough seas compared to monohulls, which only have one rudder. Let's look at more of the comparison between these two types of boats when sailing through big waves in the sea.

• When it comes to stability and comfort, catamarans can provide more stability. They are also less likely to cause seasickness and offer more living space and privacy.
• In terms of speed, catamarans are also faster than monohulls because they have a smaller displacement. Their structure also makes them less likely to capsize or sink.
• A monohull is advantageous when it comes to sailing upwind, and handling stronger winds. Their deep keel also provides them with increased stability and reduces drag, which can be an advantage in rough seas.

Catamarans Vs. Monohulls in Rough Seas

If you're planning to buy a boat, and you're deciding whether to go for a catamaran or a monohull, one of the many things you may need to consider is how they perform in rough seas. Rough seas can be challenging for any vessel, but some boats are better equipped to handle them than others. Below is a table summarizing how well these boats perform in rough seas:

A catamaran is a boat with two hulls connected by a deck. Because they have two hulls , catamarans are known for their speed, stability, and spaciousness. They are often used for cruising and chartering, as well as racing. They also have a wider beam than monohulls, which means they offer more living space and stability. They are less likely to heel or tilt to one side, are more buoyant, and have a shallow draft.

On the other hand, monohulls are the most common type of boat with only one hull. They are known for their simplicity, versatility, and affordability. Monohulls are often used for day sailing, racing, and cruising.

When it comes to rough seas, catamarans are generally more stable than monohulls in terms of roll stability. Monohulls, on the other hand, are better at handling heavy seas and high winds, but they can be more prone to rolling and pitching, and can significantly heel more than a catamaran.

If you are aiming for speed, efficiency, and stability, then a catamaran may be the better option for you. They are generally faster and more efficient due to their twin hulls, and their stability can make for a more comfortable ride in rough seas.

On the other hand, if you prioritize upwind sailing performance, sailing feels and responsiveness, and the traditional look and feel of a sailboat, then a monohull may be the better option for you. Monohulls sail closer to the wind and have a unique feel to them that some sailors prefer.

Detailed Comparison Between Catamaran And Monohull

Catamarans provide better stability and comfort

Catamarans are more stable, less likely to cause seasickness and offer more living space and privacy. Below is a table summarizing why catamaran is more advantageous in this category:

In terms of motion in rough seas

Catamarans are more stable in rough seas because they have two hulls instead of one. This means that they are less likely to roll or heel, which can make for a more comfortable ride. Monohulls, on the other hand, tend to pitch and roll more in rough seas.

In terms of handling seasickness

If you are prone to seasickness, a catamaran may be a better choice for you. The stability of a catamaran means that it is less likely to cause seasickness than a monohull. Additionally, the living space on a catamaran is often spread out between the two hulls, which can help to reduce the feeling of confinement that can contribute to seasickness.

In terms of living space and privacy

Catamarans also tend to offer more living space and privacy than monohulls. Because the living space is spread out between the two hulls, each hull can function as a separate living space. This can be especially beneficial if you are traveling with a group of people and want to have some privacy.

Both boat types have specific advantages in performance and speed

A catamaran is generally faster and more stable than a monohull, but a monohull can be easier to handle in certain conditions.

In terms of navigating upwind

When sailing upwind, a monohull has the advantage over a catamaran due to its ability to point higher into the wind. This means that a monohull can sail closer to the wind than a catamaran, which will need to tack more often. However, a catamaran can make up for this disadvantage with its speed. A catamaran can sail faster than a monohull , which can help it to cover more distance in less time.

In terms of handling strong winds

In strong winds, a catamaran is generally more stable than a monohull due to its wider beam. This means that a catamaran is less likely to heel over, making it more comfortable for passengers. However, a monohull can be easier to handle in strong winds due to its ability to reef the sails. By reducing the sail area, a monohull can reduce the amount of wind it catches, making it easier to control.

Catamarans and monohulls have different designs and function

Catamarans offer more deck and cabin space, shallow draft, and increased buoyancy, while monohulls have a deeper draft, reduced drag, and increased stability.

In terms of the deck and cabin space

One of the advantages of catamarans over monohulls is their wider beam, which provides more deck space. This means more room to move around and increased stability, which is important in rough seas.

Additionally, catamarans usually have two hulls, which means more cabin space and privacy for the crew and passengers. On the other hand, monohulls have a single hull, which means less deck and cabin space. However, monohulls usually have a deeper draft, which allows them to sail closer to the wind and tack more efficiently.

In terms of draft and buoyancy

Catamarans have a shallow draft, which means they can sail in shallow waters and anchor closer to shore. This makes them ideal for exploring shallow coves and bays. Also, catamarans have two hulls, which provide increased buoyancy and stability in rough seas.

Monohulls, on the other hand, have a deeper draft, which makes them less suitable for shallow waters. However, their deep keel provides increased stability and reduces drag , which can be an advantage in rough seas.

Both boat types have unique safety considerations

Safety is a top priority when sailing in rough seas. Catamarans are generally more stable and easier to control, while monohulls have a greater risk of capsizing but are also more maneuverable in certain situations.

In terms of the risk of capsizing

One of the biggest safety concerns when sailing in rough seas is the risk of capsizing. Catamarans have two hulls, which make them more stable than monohulls. This means that they are less likely to capsize in rough seas. Catamarans are also technically unsinkable , meaning that they will not sink even if one hull is damaged or flooded.

On the other hand, monohulls have a keel and ballast, which provide stability but also increase the risk of capsizing. If a monohull capsizes, it can be difficult to right the boat and prevent it from sinking.

In terms of navigational control

Catamarans have two rudders, which provide additional control and maneuverability in rough seas. This means that you can steer the boat more easily and avoid obstacles like rocks and other boats. Meanwhile, a monohull only has one rudder.

However, despite the number of rudders involved, the ability to control and maneuver the boat, whether a catamaran or a monohull, still depends on the design and construction of the boat, as well as the skill of the captain and crew in handling the boat.

Other practical considerations when choosing between catamaran and monohull

In terms of docking and anchorage.

Docking and anchorage can be easier with a catamaran due to the wider beam, which provides more stability. However, catamarans can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces due to their size. On the other hand, monohulls are generally easier to maneuver in tight spaces, but they may be less stable in rough seas.

For docking costs, catamarans tend to have higher docking rate costs due to their size and wider beam. Read this article to know more about the costs of docking a catamaran in different locations.

In terms of storage and equipment

Catamarans typically have more storage space than monohulls due to their wider beam and larger deck area. This means they can carry more gear and supplies, making them a good choice for longer voyages or liveaboard situations. They can accommodate larger equipment such as dinghies, kayaks, and paddleboards - making them a great choice for water sports enthusiasts who want to bring their gear along.

Monohulls, on the other hand, have less storage space due to their narrower beam and smaller deck area. This means they are better suited for shorter trips or day sailing, where less gear and supplies are needed. Monohulls may also be better suited for certain types of equipment, such as fishing gear or diving equipment, due to the layout of the boat.

In terms of crew accommodations

Catamarans tend to have more spacious accommodations than monohulls, which can be an advantage for longer trips or when traveling with a larger crew. However, monohulls may offer more privacy for individual crew members due to the separate cabins and tighter quarters.

Catamarans generally have more living space than monohulls so they can offer more room for sleeping, lounging, and cooking, which can be especially beneficial for larger crews or families. They also often have large, open salons and cockpits that allow for easy socializing and entertaining. This can be a great feature for crews who enjoy spending time together.

Monohulls, on the other hand, have less living space than catamarans due to their narrower beam. This means they may be better suited for smaller crews or shorter trips. They often have cabins located closer together, which can make it easier to communicate and work together as a crew, which is a plus for racing or cruising in crowded areas.

Choosing boat type based on personal preferences

In terms of aesthetics and personal taste.

One of the first things that come to mind when choosing between a catamaran and a monohull is aesthetics. Both types of boats have their unique look, and it is up to personal preference which one you find more appealing. Some people prefer the sleek and modern look of a catamaran, while others prefer the classic look of a monohull.

Another thing to consider is personal taste. If you are someone who prefers a more spacious and open boat, then a catamaran might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional sailing experience, then a monohull might be the better option.

In terms of suitability for families and couples

Basically, catamarans are known for their stability and spaciousness, making them a great choice for families with children or couples who want to have more space and privacy.

Monohulls, on the other hand, might not be as spacious as catamarans, but they offer a more traditional sailing experience. If you are a couple or a small family who wants to experience the thrill of sailing and doesn't mind being in close quarters, then a monohull might be the right choice for you.

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