Sailing Boat vs. Catamaran: What to Pick if You’re Sailing for the First Time

If it’s your first time to go sailing, one of the questions you’ll end up asking is: what kind of charter should you try out? For all of the models out there, you’re essentially trying to decide between a sailing boat or a catamaran. The main difference is that a sailing boat has only one hull, while a catamaran has two. Let’s examine their pros and cons:  

Spaciousness

Winner: Catamaran

A sailing boat with only one hull has a much smaller area than a catamaran. Although new models keep upgrading to more high ceilings and wide cabins than ever, catamarans are unbeatable in terms of spaciousness. After all, these are meant to hold larger groups of people or even a professional crew. A standard catamaran has four large cabins with their own bathrooms and queen-size beds. The cockpit is twice as big as that of a sailboat, expanding over two hulls, while the foredeck is equipped with trampolines for sunbathing. With children onboard, privacy won’t be an issue because of the large rooms.     

Cost

Winner: Sailing Boat

Even with a similar capacity for passengers, sailing boats are cheaper to charter than a catamaran. After all, catamarans have more amenities to be taken care of, and the design process also requires more resources. Another consideration is mooring. Catamarans take up twice as much space as sailing boats, so you’ll have to pay more berth. Because there’s the risk of running short of berths during crowded seasons, you’ll either have to arrive early or reserve in advance. Sailing boats are a better fit for a limited budget, although they do offer less luxuries.    

Speed

Winner: Catamaran

One of the main reasons why people opt for catamarans is the speed. Most of the time, a catamaran is roughly 20% faster than a sailing boat of the same size, so you’ll reach your destination sooner. Aside from the two engines creating a stronger push, its hulls aren’t soaked as much in water, and the reduced contact area results in less drag. The speed reaches a maximum when the catamaran is sailing downwind. First-timers will especially appreciate that it takes less outright effort to sail a catamaran rather than a sailing boat. However, keep in mind that performance varies with each model, and some sailing boats can outpace even catamarans when moving windward.  

Visuals

Winner: Sailing Boat

Sailing boats win when it comes to pure visuals. The basic outline of a sailing boat is practically iconic, and it’s what comes to mind right away when we imagine carefree coasting along the waters. No matter homely a sailing boat may be, it remains compact and proportional, with the sail being the center of attention. On the other hand, catamarans may still be elegant both on the inside and the outside, but they’re bulkier, with extra details that aren’t found in the minimalistic design of a sailing boat. To be fair, visuals won’t really have an impact when sailing, only on your photos.  

Stability

Winner: Catamaran

Because a catamaran is poised on two hulls, it’s more stable than sailing boats. It doesn’t roll much when anchored, meaning more comfortable evenings sleeping for those onboard, and it also doesn’t heel over when underway. You can walk around freely both inside and on the deck without having to grab a rail, which is why it’s perfect for children and seniors as well as individuals prone to seasickness. As delicate as it is, cooking isn’t a problem, either! In contrast, there’s more rocking and rolling with sailing boats, so these aren’t recommended if you’re prone to seasickness. On the bright side, there won’t be any slapping or pounding when underway, which happens sometimes with certain catamaran models.

Experience

Winner: Sailing Boat

One major benefit of sailing boats is how they provide a visceral sailing experience. Those onboard are likely to spend more time out on the deck, and you can experience fluctuations in water or wind keenly, leading to more excitement. The stronger the winds, the more the boat heels over. It can be especially thrilling to hang on the side while the boat is in full sail! A catamaran may be convenient, but it doesn’t really heel over, and sailing is a bit more streamlined. If you have an appetite for rugged adventure, then sailing boats might be more appealing for you.

Maneuverability

Winner: None

This is the only factor in the list that ends in a tie. Sailing boats can easily tack or change course as you intend, responding to the helm faster than a catamaran does. In general, these through water without much effort and avoid the slapping sounds that some catamarans produce. We won’t be giving the vote completely to sailing boats, though, since catamarans can perform a 360-degree turn. They may struggle with adverse weather, but they’re buoyant and nearly impossible to sink. Surprisingly, they can also maneuver around well in confined spaces because of their pair of motors and rudders.   

There’s no one answer here that’ll work for everyone. If comfort is key for you or if you’re bringing several people along such as friends and family, then a catamaran yacht charter will get you happily to your destination. This will also minimize seasickness! However, sailing boats give a more visceral experience of sailing at the expense of some comfort, and they’re better suited for a tight budget.