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Planning a sailing holiday and stuck between a catamaran and a monohull (sailboat)? You’re not alone. Both offer amazing experiences on the water, but they feel quite different once you’re on board.
Let’s break down the key differences so you can choose the right boat for your next charter.
What is a catamaran?
A catamaran has two hulls connected by a wide platform. That design means:
- Lots of space: wide saloon, big cockpit, often multiple lounging areas.
- Great stability: the boat stays relatively flat, even when it’s windy.
- Shallow draft: you can get closer to beaches and anchor in shallower bays.
Catamarans are ideal if you want comfort, privacy and plenty of room for families or groups of friends. Think sunbathing on the foredeck, kids playing safely in the cockpit and everyone having their own cabin.
What is a monohull?
A monohull (classic sailboat) has a single hull and is the “traditional” shape most people imagine when they think of sailing.
Key characteristics:
- More sporty sailing feel, especially when the boat heels under the wind.
- Narrower, more compact interior, but often cosy and charming.
- Usually cheaper to charter than a catamaran of the same length.
Monohulls are perfect if you care about the pure sailing experience and don’t mind a bit of tilt when the wind picks up.
Catamaran vs. monohull: the main differences
Both catamarans and monohulls are great options for a sailing holiday, but they don’t feel the same once you’re on board.
Use the comparison below to see which one matches your crew, budget and sailing style.
| Feature | Catamaran | Monohull |
|---|---|---|
| Space & comfort 😎 | Very spacious, wide deck and cockpit, more privacy between cabins. | Less interior space, cosy layout, better suited to smaller crews. |
| Sailing feel ⛵ | Flatter, more relaxed ride, focused on comfort. | Sportier and more responsive, heels under sail. |
| Stability & seasickness 🤢 | Very stable at anchor and under way, great for beginners. | More motion and heel, can be harder for seasick-prone guests. |
| Budget 💵 | Higher charter price and marina fees. | Usually cheaper to rent and berth. |
| Manoeuvring & docking 🛥️ | Two engines make close-quarters manoeuvres easier. | Single engine, needs a bit more technique in tight marinas. |
| Draft & anchorages⚓ | Shallow draft, can anchor closer to beaches. | Deeper keel, may need to stay slightly further out. |
| Best for 🤩 | Families, groups, comfort-focused cruising. | Sailing lovers, smaller crews, tighter budgets. |
Still unsure? As a rule of thumb:
- Choose a catamaran if you want maximum comfort, stability and space for friends or family.
- Choose a monohull if you prefer a classic sailing feel, a smaller crew and a more budget-friendly option.
FAQ
What is the main difference between a catamaran and a monohull?
A catamaran has two hulls and a wide platform, offering more space and stability. A monohull has a single hull, feels more “classic” under sail and usually heels more in the wind.
Which is better for beginners or nervous sailors?
A catamaran is generally better for beginners and nervous sailors because it stays flatter and more stable, both under way and at anchor.
Which is more comfortable for a family holiday?
Catamarans usually win on comfort: they offer larger living areas, wide decks and more privacy between cabins, which is great for families and groups.
Is a catamaran or a monohull cheaper to charter?
Monohulls are typically cheaper to charter and berth in marinas than catamarans of similar length, making them a good option if you’re on a tighter budget.
How do I choose the right boat for my trip?
Choose a catamaran if you want maximum comfort, space and stability. Choose a monohull if you’re looking for a more sporty sailing feel, sail with a smaller crew and prefer a lower overall cost.
