TRI-STAR CAT 14 Plans $ Slightly Larger, Fast Catamaran Design
TRI-STAR CAT 27 PC Study Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 27 PC Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 27 Study Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 27 Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 36 Study Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 36 Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 38 Study Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 38 Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 41 Study Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 41 Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 51 Study Plans $
TRI-STAR CAT 51 Plans $
Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats
Last Updated by
Daniel Wade
December 28, 2023
Catamarans are an excellent choice for living on the water. Modern catamarans are more spacious than monohulls and provide all the comforts of home.
In this article, we'll cover five of the best liveaboard catamarans available on the new and used market today. We'll also cover how to choose the best and most comfortable catamaran to live aboard.
The best liveaboard catamarans are the Manta 42, the Nautitech 44, the Voyage 44, the Privilege 435, the Elba 35, and the Lagoon 380. These vessels are seaworthy, comfortable, and ideal for long-term living.
We sourced the technical specifications of these vessels from maritime records and directly from sailboat manufacturers. We also considered the opinions of sailors who live aboard these vessels and others.
Table of contents
Living on a catamaran has both advantages and disadvantages when compared to living on a monohull sailboat. That said, most of the challenges of living aboard a catamaran are mitigated on larger and higher-quality vessels.
Catamarans feature two hulls placed side-by-side and connected by a deck. As a result, the cabins are split between the two hulls, and you may have to go outside to get to the other cabin. Thankfully, most modern cruising catamarans have a center cockpit that connects the two hulls and often features living spaces.
Some vessels have facilities (such as the galley and table) in one cabin and sleeping areas in the other. However, some catamarans have sleeping and cooking facilities in both hulls. The configuration you choose depends on how many people attended live aboard and what layout you prefer.
Catamarans offer superior stability and motion comfort, which is a big advantage when living aboard. Overall, conditions under sail and in the harbor are likely much better aboard a properly-proportioned catamaran.
What qualities make a catamaran ideal for living aboard, and how do you choose the best boat? Attributes such as size and interior layout are the most important, but others such as fit and finish and seakeeping abilities should also be considered.
The best liveaboard catamarans range in size between 30 and 50 feet, width 40 feet being the comfortable average. In general, vessels smaller than 30 feet simply lack the space to include a practical interior layout.
Interior layout is largely a matter of personal opinion. The most popular liveaboard catamaran features a spacious center cockpit with access to both hulls. Master bedrooms are often found in the stern and the bow of each hull, with heads in between and a galley in the center cockpit. Some catamarans feature one or more additional settees, along with storage in all areas.
The majority of monohull sailboats were produced between the 1960s in the 1980s. This isn't the case for catamarans, as their popularity is more recent. As a result, you're likely to find considerably more modern amenities aboard. Everything from autopilot systems to bathtubs are available aboard newer catamarans.
Catamaran prices vary widely based on age, length, and overall quality. Older vessels cost anywhere between $30,000 and $100,000. Newer and more comfortable liveaboard catamarans generally start above the $100,000 mark and extend up to $500,000 or more.
We chose the following six liveaboard catamarans based on size, interior amenities, handling, and price. These vessels are popular amongst liveaboard sailors and make exceptionally comfortable floating homes both in port and at sea.
{{boat-info="/boats/manta-42"}}
The first vessel on our list is an exceptional cruising catamaran that's also a comfortable place to live. The Manta 42 can be found on the used market, and it features great handling and a spacious cabin.
Unlike most catamarans, which are built overseas, the Manta 42 was produced entirely in the United States. The Florida-based company produced these vessels in the 1990s and 2000s, and they proved extremely popular with offshore cruisers.
The Manta 42 is known for its stability, hull strength, and speed. However, its cabin layout is also smart and livable. Most Manta 42s feature an asymmetrical cabin layout. The cabin has two heads located in convenient places; one on the port side across from a master berth and one on the starboard side, which is easily accessible from the cockpit. It features three berthing areas and one large sitting area, with seating and storage throughout.
The Manta 42 also has exceptional storage capacity. The vessel stores 125 gallons of fuel and a whopping 100 gallons of freshwater. It also has generous gray and black water tanks to service both heads and the galley sinks.
Overall, the Manta 42 is an excellent choice for cruising liveaboards. It's a fast, nimble, and safe vessel with ample headroom and space throughout the cabin.
{{boat-info="/boats/nautitech-44"}}
The Nautitech 44 is the obvious choice for the number two spot on our list. This well-known cruising catamaran has a unique Center cockpit design which makes it stylish and functional.
The futuristic cockpit of the Nautitech 44 allows the crew to enjoy ample ventilation even in wet conditions. This makes it ideal for living abroad in tropical climates where rain and heat often accompany each other.
Nautitech, which is a French company, continues to produce this model due to its popularity and excellent seakeeping abilities. Prices almost always exceed $100,000, both new and used, making it one of the costlier models on the list. For the price, you get a fine interior fit and finish along with the latest comforts and conveniences.
The Nautitech 44 is available in several cabin layouts. The most popular configuration features an expansive center cockpit with below-deck living spaces, along with three berthing areas and a galley. Additionally, most of these vessels feature a large master head and several smaller heads in each of the hulls. Access to each hull through the center cockpit is easy, and the headroom is excellent.
The Nautitech 44 is a fast boat, and it's great for offshore cruising. However, hull width was sacrificed for speed and handling. This means that the hulls are slightly narrower than some of the competition. That said, it doesn't seem to bother most Nautitech owners.
{{boat-info="/boats/voyage-44"}}
Here's a popular and spacious catamaran with some unique characteristics that make it ideal for living aboard. The Voyage 44 is a wide and stable multihull sailboat with a large center cockpit and an attractive interior layout.
The cabin of the Voyage 44 is modern and airy, taking advantage of light colors and thoughtfully designed furniture to make the most out of limited space. This is conducive to a pleasant living environment that's also easy to clean. The center cockpit also features a large, full galley.
The center cockpit stands out, as the voyage 44s exceptionally wide beam gives it plenty of room for tables, sitting areas, and other amenities. The windows let in plenty of light, in the cabin is completely weatherproof.
Below decks, the Voyage 44 features up to six separate heads and several sleeping areas. The master head, located in the bow, is one of the largest available on sailboats of this size range. The vessel features up to eight individuals sleeping areas, which is remarkable for a 44-foot boat.
The Voyage 44 is an excellent liveaboard catamaran due to its wide beam and extremely spacious living accommodations. Out of all the boats on this list, the Voyage 44 is likely the best value overall as it's relatively affordable. The Voyage 44 may be the perfect long-term liveaboard catamaran under 50 feet in length.
{{boat-info="/boats/privilege-435"}}
The Alliaura Marine Privilege 435 is a simple and elegant catamaran with a comfortable interior, smart design, ingrate offshore handling characteristics. This speedy vessel is constructed with some of the finest materials available, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. Behind the center cabin, the Privilege 435 features a strong fiberglass canopy to protect the crew from spray and son.
The majority of Privilege 435s on the market were built recently, so you can expect the latest navigation and safety equipment. Additionally, the vessel is efficient and includes amenities such as multiple heads, modern utilities, and easy access to the hulls through the center cabin.
The vessel features four separate bedrooms and enough bathrooms and showers for each person (or couple). The center Cabin is wide and features comfortable seating areas, along with a full galley with a stove and a fridge. Stepping inside the Privilege 435 is like stepping inside of a vacation house, and it feels purpose-built for long-term living.
The vessel is available in relatively high numbers, though its popularity means you're likely to pay top dollar. On the used market, the vessel sells for between $250,000 to $350,000 on average. This puts it on the upper edge of our price range. But for the price, you got a long-lasting and desirable catamaran that's ready to live aboard almost immediately.
The Privilege 435 is ideal for cruising liveaboards with families or sailors who need space for guests. The interior is very comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. It has several great spaces for entertaining multiple people. On short-to-medium voyages, the Privilege 435 should be adequate for up to eight or more adults.
{{boat-info="/boats/fountaine-pajot-elba-45"}}
The Fountain Pajot Elba 45 is a modern and luxurious cruising catamaran with a high freeboard and all the living amenities you'd expect. It's a high-caliber vessel that sails as good as it looks, and it's still produced by the original manufacturer in Europe.
The Elba 45 has one of the largest center cabins of any catamaran in its size range. It features a large settee, a full galley, and access to both hulls. The cabin layout is flexible, and you can order one of several different designs. One of the most popular is the classic 'mirror' layout, where each hull has two master berthing areas, a V-berth in the bow, and two separate heads.
However, other versions are available with attached bathing facilities and additional room for storage, cooking, and other activities. One of the unique features of the Elba 45 is the addition of a V-berth bow. This berth connects directly to the master Beds, which makes for a unique but flexible sleeping arrangement.
If purchased new, the Elba 45 will set you back around $430,000 to $450,000. For the price, you get the latest technology and the finest interior and exterior materials. This is important in the long run as the best liveaboard catamarans should be built to last.
The fit and finish of this vessel are ideal for those looking for a luxurious living environment. Its accommodations are closer to that of a luxury yacht than a sailboat. As a result, the Elba 45 is a great place to live long-term and entertain guests.
{{boat-info="/boats/lagoon-380"}}
The majority of suitable liveaboard catamarans are over 40 feet in length. This is because it's difficult to fit comfortable accommodations in a smaller vessel. However, the Lagoon 380 is a notable exception. This 39-foot catamaran is one of the most comfortable vessels in its class, and it features a spacious interior and excellent design.
The Lagoon 380 is a newer vessel that features modern conveniences and adheres to high safety standards. Modern manufacturing techniques make this vessel stronger and easier to maintain than its older counterparts. Additionally, owners praise its sailing characteristics in both rough and calm weather.
The spacious center cabin features a full galley and sitting area with a notably wide walking room in between. It also boasts excellent visibility, which also increases the amount of natural light in the living areas. Additionally, the center cabin features easy access to the hulls, and the mirror layout provides comfortable accommodations for eight adults.
The interior space aboard the Lagoon 380 is almost indistinguishable from catamarans between 44 and 50 feet in length. The primary difference is that, instead of the traditional two heads per hull, the Lagoon 380 only features one. That said, the heads include a large shower and plenty of room to move around.
The Lagoon 380 is the perfect solution for sailors looking for big boat accommodations in a small package. Due to its shorter length, the Lagoon 380 avoids additional fees for docking and servicing vessels over 40 feet overall.
Related Articles
I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.
by this author
Best Sailboats
October 3, 2023
September 26, 2023
Important Legal Info
Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.
September 13, 2023
Popular posts.
Elizabeth O'Malley
June 15, 2022
December 20, 2023
Get the best sailing content.
Top Rated Posts
Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL
© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy
The 1160 innovative design has gained worldwide acclaim for its clever layout, use of space and efficient short-handed sailing performance., performance through optimization, live, expore and discover with an 1160.
The Seawind 1160 Lite platform features timber laminates that reduce the boat weight by almost 1,000kg. The catamaran layout maximizes the space of this 38-footer and allows for open airflow from the fully-opening cockpit doors through the saloon, down into the cabins, and through the forward wet locker. With 360 degree views and plenty of natural light down below, you have a great view point from any angle on this catamaran design.
Live, explore and discover with an 1160.
The Seawind 1160 pioneered modern cruising catamaran ergonomics, including the transverse bed arrangement – one bed arranged fore-aft and the other arranged transverse, meaning you will always find a comfortable sleeping angle in the cabins. The broad saloon allows for a large double bed – so sleep under stars when anchored. While under way, have a comfortable nights sleep in the saloon, within easy reach of the captain on the helm. It’s these easy and natural ergonomics which meake the Seawind 1160 design the cruisers choice across the globe.
The Seawind 1160 Lite has a sleek new interior design and fitout, with lightweight and stylish timber-effect laminate surfaces and a contemporary colour pallete. Upholstery is modern, angular, supportive and comfortable, with a range of premium interior fabrics to choose from.
The Seawind 1160 Deluxe has a sleek new interior design and fitout, with lightweight and stylish timber surfaces and a traditional yet modern contemporary colour pallete. Upholstery is modern, angular, supportive and comfortable, with a range of premium interior fabrics to choose from.
One of the most noticeable differences on board the Seawind 1160 catamaran is the new sleek interior design and fit out. The timber kit will be replaced with lightweight and stylish timber look laminate surfaces, with a new contemporary neutral colour palette as specified by Seawind’s interior stylist.
With well over 150 Seawind 1160 boats launched and sailing the world, the design has been well proven, from crossing the world’s largest oceans to chartering in the beautiful locations such as the Whitsundays, Thailand and Caribbean.
The Seawind 1160 platform enabels boat owners to choose between traditional Yanmar diesel sail drives or the significantly lighter 20hp Honda (or 25hp Yamaha) outboard engines with electric tilt, a simple push of a button tilts the engine up and out of the water so you have no prop and shaft dragging.
"We're seriously considering the Seawind 1160 Lite for our next sailboat because of the long list of positives this catamaran has to offer. Here's just a few of the most important ones to us: Size - We don't want a huge catamaran. Seaworthiness - Plenty of Seawind catamarans have circumnavigated. Performance - The Seawind 1160 Lite is designed to sail well first and foremost. Livability - This catamaran has got a lot of accommodation and room for a 38' sailboat. All of that combined with the fact that we can set one up with electric outboards, daggerboards, and lifting rudders means we think that the Seawind 1160 Lite might be the best catamaran boat possible for our budget and lifestyle."
Overall length, 38' / 11.6 m, 21'4" / 6.5 m, 3'6" / 1.1 m, displacement, 14,300 lbs / 6,500 kgs, 2 x 20 hp petrol outboard, 71 us gallons / 269 litres, fresh water, 185 us gallons / 700 litres, 861 sq ft / 80 sq m, 15,400 lbs / 7,000 kgs, 2 x 29 hp diesel inboard, 95 us gallons / 360 litres, recommended options.
One of the few shortcommings of a catamaran is its tendancy not to stay head to wind on anchor. As wind blows across the bows the boat will tend to twist from side to side around the anchor chain. This effect is combatted by the use of an anchor bridle.
This foam backed waterproof marine flooring by Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl will help keep your cockpit clean and tidy, It reduces pressure on your heels when barefoot onboard and looks super classy!
In this configuration we installed 2x 320w flush panels on the hardtop and 2x 210w framed panels off the back of the targa arch giving a total of 1060W. The flush mount panels can contour to the shape of the roof and can therefore cover more surface area, their weakness however is reduced efficiency (our tests showed a 10% reduction compared to the framed panels of equivalent wattage).
The Zeus³-12 is a complete chartplotter navigation system for blue water cruisers and regatta racers. This high-performance multi-function display features a 12″ diagonal widescreen display, incorporating SolarMAX™ HD technology for brilliant daytime visibility and ultra-wide viewing angles.
Explore poorly-chartered or unfamiliar waters confidently, avoid upcoming dangers or obstructions and set custom shallow depth alarms with B&G’s forward-looking sensor. With an effective range eight times the actual depth, ForwardScan® helps you avoid groundings or damage to keels and rudders while pinpointing the ideal spot for anchoring.
The Iridium GO! is a satellite wifi router/phone. Once installed in the boat the boat will have a wifi hotspot the same as any office/home and all devices (phones, computers, chartplotters, c-zone etc) can then easily be connected to the internet.
Tel +84 28 3873 3630
Sales Enquiry:
Customer Service Enquiry:
© 2024 Seawind Group Holdings, Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy
Our Catamarans
Explore our models in a different way thanks to the virtual marina
Efficiency through design
A feel for the sea: sailboats first and foremost
When volume transforms to real space
Innovation as a foundation
Catamaran Aura 51
Length overall
Beam overall
Standard Power
Electric version
Smart elec pack
Battery Park
Hydrogeneration
Upgraded battery
Upgraded charger
Additionnal AC Inverter
Inclus (Smart Elec 75)
On this yacht, guests do not have to envy the owners when it comes to enjoying comfort and privacy. Isn't that what true luxury is all about?
6 proper cabins plus full crew quarters
At 15.54 metres long, it’s easy to see that the Aura 51 catamaran will be generous with space, because she can afford to be. Her hulls have a configuration flexibility that is rare a sailing catamaran of this size, offering the option of not one, but two owner’s cabins that each feature direct access from the stern. Her cockpit-saloon deck layout – which affords breathtaking views and can be completely opened up – is also a first. Featuring the latest in energy management technology, she is equipped with an innovative propulsion system on the ‘Smart Electric’ version.
Aura 51: an eco-friendly catamaran
The Aura 51 grants a sublime sense of freedom without ever seeming too extravagant. Seamless movement onboard has been carefully orchestrated with its fluidity leaving nothing to chance. The ergonomics of carefree movement reflects the philosophy of this unique liveaboard catamaran .
Version Double Maestro
2 owners’ suites + 2 bathrooms / 2 double cabins + 2 bathrooms
Mainsail area
Displacement unloaded
Option Power
Fresh water tank
2 x 119 Gallons
Diesel tank
Berret-Racoupeau Design
With 2,000 watts generated by fully integrated solar panels, the Aura 51 is a shining example when it comes to renewable energy . Storage and management are handled by a dedicated panel for optimal day-to-day convenience. Her many features make onboard life even more enjoyable.
Unique design and incomparable spaces.
The only sailing catamaran of its size to offer up to 6 double cabins, the Aura 51 isn’t just open for invitations, she really knows how to entertain! The numerous lounge and shared living areas guarantee an unrivalled degree of comfort. Finding guests to join you has never been easier!
The ambiance and materials of the Fountaine Pajot catamaran range evolve over time to infuse our boats with more light, harmony, and modernity, adapting to the trends of today and tomorrow. To give you a glimpse of the current Millésime featured in our range , explore the mini configurator below. It allows you to visualize the standard and optional materials available across our entire lineup. The featured catamaran showcasing the current Millésime is the Aura 51. Every Fountaine Pajot model delivered will include the Millésime presented below.
As if you were there….
Welcome aboard this exceptional yacht for a 100% immersive visit. Explore her interior and exterior living spaces in minute detail!
Waiting times for a Fountaine Pajot catamaran may vary according to the stage of your project, the model you want or your sailing area. Some Fountaine Pajot dealers have new catamarans ready to sail! Contact your nearest dealer HERE to ask about the availability of the catamaran of your dreams!
Visit your nearest Fountaine Pajot boat dealer to buy a new catamaran from our range. You will benefit from personalised advice through the Fountaine Pajot dealer network. Discover our network HERE
The price of a Fountaine Pajot sailing catamaran varies according to the size of the model chosen and your sailing project. Our dealers are at your disposal to guide you in your choice of fittings, packages and options to best suit your boat purchase project . You can find out the starting price of the catamaran of your choice on this page HERE .
Innovative, high-tech composite materials constitute most of the structure of our sailing catamarans: hulls, flybridge, decks, bulkheads and more. Fountaine Pajot has perfected a resin injection and infusion technique, an advanced technology that gives our boats all their robustness. Thanks to this expertise, we can make our catamarans considerably lighter while maintaining consistent quality . Injection also makes it possible to meet the most stringent environmental requirements, in line with the commitments of the Fountaine Pajot Group.
Sailing catamarans from 40 to 50 feet are built at the Aigrefeuille headquarters, a few kilometres from La Rochelle. Catamaran yachts from 51 to 80 feet are built in La Rochelle, France, where they benefit from a slipway.
It is essential to define your sailing program: define the size of the crew on board, the level of sailing knowledge, the sailing project and the target sailing area. Every project is different. Whether you want to enjoy a large Owner’s suite, invite many friends and family on board, or telecommute during your voyage, the Fountaine Pajot cruising catamarans can be adapted to suit your needs. Benefit from reliable, seaworthy and spacious catamarans! Find out more about our Owners’ testimonials here
The ergonomics of Fountaine Pajot catamarans have been designed to facilitate manoeuvring at the helm, enabling a small crew (2 persons) to manoeuvre the boat easily, both in port and at sea. The unique design of the helm station allows good communication between the aft cockpit and the Fly relaxation areas. Of course, your level of navigation will determine your ability to sail with two or more persons!
Our electric catamarans now feature a large surface area of solar panels, up to 2000 WC, perfectly integrated into the design of the coachroof. Combined with equipment such as wind turbines or hydro-generators, they compensate for the energy consumption generated by on-board use during cruising. Discover the benefits of the Smart Electric solution with 4 real-life cruise scenarios
The Fountaine Pajot range of electric catamarans is expanding, and now includes 3 Smart Electric models. The Astréa 42, Elba 45 and Aura 51 are now available in this version.
With the help of over 70 engineers, Fountaine Pajot has developed an in-house solution, 100% adapted to the use of its catamarans equipped with hybrid electric motors . All on-board production and energy expenditure flows are managed from a single console designed by our teams to offer a simple, designer user experience. The system we have developed enables us to give priority to the use of renewable energies at all times. Find out more here
15-meter sailboat
Your local dealer will be happy to advise you and give you more details about this model!
A life of dreams, adventures and emotions....
Immerse yourself in the Fountaine Pajot experience through stories of adventure, news, webcasts, podcasts, press reviews, photo and video reports... Discover a little more about the pleasures of cruising and sailing catamarans!
17 Jul 2024
Fountaine Pajot team wishes you a great summer!
Welcome aboard our latest newsletter, So Catamaran!
10 Jul 2024
New 2024 edition of the MyBoatAndI photo contest
How does Smart Electric technology work? Answer on video…
Smart Electric: a complete overview of this technology, its origins, how it works and its everyday benefits... #Broadcast
02 Jul 2024
3 exceptional days to discover the Fountaine Pajot Sailing Catamarans range
4 days of catamaran cruising with Fountaine Pajot in the British Virgin Islands
22 May 2024
International Event | Open Days La Rochelle
Photo Challenge 2023
03 May 2024
Tanna 47 | Exclusive testimonial for a Mediterranean circumnavigation
2023 magazine
24 Apr 2024
Thíra 80: voted “Best Production Sailing Catamaran” by Yacht Style
Multihulls World Magazine – Astréa 42
Subscribe to the newsletter
Follow the adventures of Fountaine Pajot Owners, discover the latest news and upcoming events, and take part in the development of the Boat of tomorrow!
Compare models
Catamaran Isla 40
Hosting capacity
Motorisation
Technical information
User-friendly areas
Sunbathing Oui
Kitchen Non
Sunbathing Non
Discover the prices
Double rooms
Your contact details
One last step before reaching the next page & discovering the prices proposed & main options for this version! You'll then be able, to schedule a live chat with your local dealer to discuss all the options and configurations available for this model!
Your home port
Any questions?
No pack information currently available online for this Flagship model. We will get back to you directly. Thank you
Would you like to configure this model’s options or set up another model?
Make an appointment with your nearest dealer and choose the boat of your dreams.
We know that Owen Clarke Design are not the first office that comes to mind when thinking of multihull designs. However, we were first before anything else trimaran designers long before moving into the field of high performance monohulls with the development of Open 60s such as Kingfisher, and Ecover. Bare with us and please take the time to read the paragraphs below. They serve to illustrate our extensive and largely unknown background in trimaran and performance catamaran design to the media, interested parties, existing and future clients. We look forward to meeting the client who's interested to tread a different path and wants something innovative and exciting, while at the same time using experienced designers and engineers. If you might be that client and wish to begin that discussion contact us For more information on our 24m design go to: For an explanation of the technology behind the design process go to: For an insight into our engineering and detailed design work go to: And for those that might be interested, three videos from the 90's from three classic British multihull events: |
Catamaran and Trimaran Boat Plans make it a reality to build your own catamaran or trimaran. Multi-hulled sailing vessels are a special class of boat. A very different mind set is required when thinking about sailing a multi hull, let alone getting your head around building one.
There are some unique challenges building a multi-hull sail boat, the extra beam added by each hull for instance can create storage issues while under construction. Hartley boat plans make the build process straight forward for even amateur builders. However with all things considered, building a multi can be an amazing journey.
The celebrity of the catamaran is not only swelling in racing, but also for cruising catamarans. At their conception, the atypical design enabled cats to sail faster and in shallower waters with less wind and crew than other sailing vessels. But for years the unorthodox design met with skepticism, leaving the catamaran with little commercial success. Additional challenges to adoption of early versions of cruising cats were the small, very cramped interiors by modern day standards, was heavy and lumbering handling abilities. Many sailors used to say they “were built like tanks and sailed like bricks”.
However, sailors soon realized that nothing could beat the comfort, speed, and safety of a well-designed modern catamaran as a cruising yacht. These vessels can achieve the highest speed for the smoothest ride and boast the most interior space and greatest safety of most ocean-going vessels. Sailors of all types are quickly overcoming earlier prejudices against the multihull design as contemporary design trends continue to produce catamarans that are faster, more exciting, more visually interesting, and safer than ever before.
Fun and interesting new trends in catamarans make sailing even more exciting than ever before. However, innovations are only useful if they contribute to good design, construction, and safety principles and it should fit your sailing purposes. Let’s take a look at some trends in modern cats:
The new generation of catamaran, using modern composite construction and engineering can be built lighter, larger, and more spacious with very good power-to-weight characteristics. Currently, the trend leans increasingly towards larger catamarans. The average catamaran for a cruising couple now tends to be more in the 45ft to 50ft range. With composite engineering and installation of technologically advanced equipment, e.g., electric winches, furling systems, and reliable auto pilot, it is now possible for shorthanded crews to confidently sail larger boats with larger rigs. Technology has enabled modern catamarans’ bigger volume with more stiff and torsion resistant construction, without compromising stability and safety.
The design improvements of convertible living areas not only increases usable space and opens up the living areas, but also reduces interior maintenance and cleaning issues of traditional varnished wood surfaces. An open and convertible main living area with simple, hard-wearing composite materials reduces costs and time required to clean and maintain the boat. Big windows and opening vents allow light in and increase visibility. Gone are the submarine-like claustrophobic cabins typical of most traditional yachts. Owners’ cabins are luxurious, airy, and spacious serving as a very comfortable living space, rather than just a place to sleep.
However, Gunboat moved the cockpit back under cover in its latest designs, just as Leopard introduced a forward cockpit with opening doors into the leisure-focused salon in their Leopard 44 and 48 models. The team at Catamaran Guru questions the suitability of this design feature for blue water catamarans that will encounter large seas, but nonetheless, it is a popular trend especially for the yacht charter market.
Ultimately for a cruising catamaran, our preference is a safe, protected helm station with good visibility and all the control lines leading back to the helm to create a static control station. Push-button controlled winches and windlass as well as the instruments and autopilot should be prominently located and protected within the cockpit.
Getting from the cockpit up to the flybridge and back down in bad weather can prove unsafe. To accommodate the flybridge, the goose neck and boom must be very high making stowing the main problematic. The higher gooseneck position also means that the center of effort is higher which impacts the vessel’s righting moment and is not as good as catamaran with a lower boom position and bulkhead steering. Just where the flybridge design will go is anybody’s guess but right now it has huge appeal for a lot of people.
Because of design innovations like curved daggerboards and the hydrofoils, performance on cruising catamarans has improved tremendously but catamaran speed is relative. The most important benefit of speed of a multihull is the ability to outrun bad weather. Being able to average 2-3 knots faster on a catamaran than on a monohull, can help avoid bad weather. Many cruisers often tell us at Catamaran Guru, “I don’t care about performance,” but its not long before they understand that the heavy cruising cat is not quite as comfortable at sea – AND very slow. It makes no sense to buy a catamaran that will not sail at least 200nm per day when making passage.
In modern catamarans, the most popular trend currently is galley up, making it a focal point of the main living and entertainment areas. When at sea, every meal comes from the galley, so live-aboards spend a lot of time in the galley and many cruising couples and families find that the separation of galley down in a hull is not ideal. When at sea, hauling hot food up and down the stairs is a safety hazard. Having the galley on the same level as the serving area and cockpit is less tiring and safer. Also, ventilation is better on the bridgedeck than down in the hulls, which makes cooking more comfortable, especially if you are prone to seasickness. The disadvantage of the galley up design is less privacy for the cook’s messes and it can significantly impact the size of the saloon seating area, especially on smaller cats.
Some manufacturers like the St Francis 50 and Antares 44 still trust in the galley down design. Galley down is often preferred for charter boats because it provides a private, self-contained cooking area with dedicated prep areas and utilizes space in the hull that might otherwise be less efficiently used. However, the most popular trend is galley up and it makes sense to most sailors, especially cruising couples and families.
More on our take for galleys up or down .
Even in the age of computer modeling, yacht design remains a series of compromises and the use of a boat will dictate its visual design and performance characteristics to a large degree. A well-designed catamaran is ergonomic and pleasing to the eye. It should be sensible and safe, with performance that can get to a safe harbor when necessary. It all comes down to safety and comfort, especially in rough conditions.
Looking to buy a yacht? Contact us if you have any questions regarding catamarans for sale , Fractional Yacht Ownership or our Charter Management Programs .
Join our community.
Get the latest on catamaran news, sailing events, buying and selling tips, community happenings, webinars & seminars, and much more!
Good reading, informative and to the point. There is no reference to building standards and codes of practice. The Catamaran industry needs to “mature “ as more models and brands enter the market with the consumer paying for the downward spiral. Look forward to your next article.
Hi Gregor, you are right. There is no one uniform set of standards. Most countries have published guidelines, codes or laws that a boatbuilder must follow in order to sell a boat in that country. Some of the better known ones are USCG, ABYC, CE, AS/NZS and ABS. There is a lot of similarity between the different international regulatory bodies but just as many differences. Enforcement of these standards are sketchy. Labels are applied to boats i.e. “in compliance,” “certified” or “classified.” and it all means little if not enforced. In the US, it’s mostly up to the builder to voluntarily comply with the published guidance ( the all do since it’s in their interest). In the European Union, by law a boat has to be inspected, documented and certified. Australia and New Zealand publish their own set of rules. So it’s a miss mash of laws and rules and it’s hard for the consumer to pin down!
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
We have a new home in Annapolis! The office is located in Annapolis, Maryland
Our Texas Office is located in the Watergate Marina Center in Clear Lake Shores,
Meet with our team! Want to learn more about the Bali and Catana
The Catana OC 50 Catamaran, the latest addition to the Catana Ocean Class series,
For more than 30 years, we have been a part of the catamaran community and created Catamaran Guru™ to encourage and educate all the aspiring sailing out there. We understand the dream of traveling the world by catamaran and created a one-stop-shop to make that dream a reality for you.
Mocka Jumbies and Rum...
A new catamaran is rallying to the Caribbean this fall. Piment Rouge (Red Pepper), the name of Captain Pierre De Saint Vincent’s former Outremer 51, which has crisscrossed the Atlantic between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean over the last three years, is now the moniker of his just-launched 50’ Catana Ocean Class yacht. De Saint Vincent will take delivery of the new Catana cat this summer and then prepare her to sail in the ARC+.
The ARC+ is a World Cruising Club-run rally that departs La Palmas in Gran Canaria on November 10, with a stop in Cape Verde, before finishing at Camper and Nicholsons Port Louis Marina, in Grenada. It’s here in Grenada that cat-connoisseurs can get a look at this new Catana design.
Sailing with Charlie: World cruisers are everywhere these days
“When you live on your boat, as I do, comfort and layout are far from negligible factors,” says De Saint Vincent. “I’ve sailed 45,000 miles in less than 3 years in all conditions, including some tough transatlantic passages, so a comfortable and protected helm station in all weathers is very much appreciated. The Catana’s layout is top quality and very functional, with a rear bench seat for watchkeeping and a comfortable seat at the chart table, not to mention the numerous storage options, which are always much sought-after on a boat.”
Piment Rouge is a performance-oriented yacht with a carbon mast and sail pack with 7 sails to make the most of every wind angle. It’s also comfortable. Piment Rouge offers liveaboard comfort including over 500 liters of chilled storage, a 9 kg washing machine, and air conditioning. Piment Rouge will even be equipped with a wine cellar, half of which will be used to store fruit and vegetables.
Top 10 Islands in the Grenadines: A Sailor’s Paradise
“We’ve got a great challenge ahead of us this year on the ARC+ with a lot of competitors, which will enable us to judge the performance of our new catamaran,” says De Saint Vincent.
For more information, visit Catana or Piment Rouge .
What is an IC24?
Stay in the loop with the Caribbean
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Notify me of follow-up comments by email.
Notify me of new posts by email.
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .
Discover the magic: 5 caribbean bio bays to visit for bioluminescent waters, saffier se 24 lite: a perfect daysailer in the british virgin islands, so caribbean you can almost taste the rum....
2025 vx one caribbean cup set to return at stir and bvi spring regatta, usvi charter yacht show 2024: showcasing professionalism and new yachts, superyacht bayesian sinks in seconds: what went wrong, mastering wind vane steering: lessons from 12 years of sailing with hydrovane, recent comments, subscribe to all at sea.
Don't worry... We ain't getting hitched...
Talkative posts, the seven words you can’t put in a boat name, saying “no”, program for financing older boats – tips and suggestions, popular category.
All At Sea - The Caribbean's Waterfront Community Caribbean Cruising, Sailing, Boating, Fishing and Yachting
Contact us: [email protected]
© Kennan Holdings LLC - All Rights Reserved
IMAGES
COMMENTS
Affordable. Building your own boat with Wharram Designs is the easiest and most cost effective way to fulfil your sailing dreams. Wharram Self-build boat plans start from only £120. Wharram designs are based on years of practical, hands-on experience of building and ocean sailing catamarans. They are renowned for their seaworthiness, stability ...
The Prismatic Coefficient (Cp), a measure of how full the ends of the hull get, is the most essential design hull shape factor for any catamaran. A high Cp equals high speeds, although you can still use a lower Cp if you have fine hulls. Nevertheless, the key to a good Catamaran design is a higher Cp for fast sailing.
The best catamaran sailboats can easily clock 250-mile voyages, offer incredible performance, and have layouts that can be easily optimized for individuals, charter markets, and great accommodation. In essence, the best catamaran sailboats offer respectable performance and offer good load-carrying ability.
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK. Snail Mail: PO Box 900, Morayfield, Qld, 4510, Australia. Email: [email protected]. Mike Waller Yacht Design provides comprehensive boat plans for amateur boat builders. A range of stock plans are available for both monohulls and multihull vessels, constructed in plywood or timber / glass composite.
If you were to build a 40-foot (12.1-meter) catamaran, your cost of materials would range between 20-30% of the total cost. Therefore, for $300,000 total, the boat's materials would range between $60,000 and $90,000. The hull tends to range between 15-35% of the total build.
Instead there is a wide variety of designs, ranging from small catamarans that offer the ease of maintenance a couple might enjoy to performance catamarans capable of easily knocking off 250-mile days. Today, the best catamaran brands offer a range of size models and layouts that can be optimized for an owner sailing with family and friends, or ...
KHSD boat Videos. Tel: 206.719.4893 Email: Kurt Hughes [email protected] Slater's Landing 3123 Fairview Ave E.
Schionning Designs International offer the easiest and affordable Multihull Catamaran Plan and Kit Solution. Visit: www.schionningdesign.com ... and as much fun as possible! The Schionning pre-cut kit is the simplest way to build your own boat or have it built faster and more accurately by a professional. Anyone can get started on Living The ...
plywood Romany 34. lightweight 14ft Zeta mainhull. Strike 15 trimaran at speed. 28ft Skoota in British Columbia. 10ft 2 sheet ply Duo dinghy. 24ft Strider sailing fast. 36ft Mirage open deck catamaran. Welcome to this, the Woods Designs web site which we hope you will find is an interesting and useful introduction to our range of boat designs ...
Have you ever wondered the processes that go into Catamaran design and building a Catamaran? Maybe. Maybe not.However for those of you who are contemplating ...
We design modern high performance sailing catamarans, trimarans and power cats. Contact us to find the right professionals and resources for your project, or to create a custom design to empower your vision for time on the water.
If you have fine hulls you can use a lower Cp. Most monohulls have a Cp of 0.55- 0.57. And that is about right for displacement speeds. However the key to Catamaran design is you need a higher Cp if you want to sail fast. So a multihull should be at least 0.61 and a heavy displacement multihull a bit higher still.
Everything you need to build your own sea-going catamaran: 3 steps. Familiarise yourself with our range of designs and their unique qualities. For more detailed information read the Wharram Design Book which reviews each self-build boat model and offers a detailed introduction and understanding of the world of self-build catamarans.; Order one or more sets of our Study Plans and immerse ...
Chris White Designs . Chris White Designs specializes in the design of high performance cruising catamarans and trimarans. Each boat is designed and engineered to exacting standards of performance capability, structural integrity, ease of handling for a small crew, and comfort underway.
The larger TRI's and CAT's have full radius hulls.With no lofting you build right away. The DESIGNER'S book TRIMARAN and CATAMARAN CONSTRUCTION is part of the plans (over 21') and covers all phases of construction. Plans are leased to build ONE boat, NO time limit. Tri-Star designs are proven designs, sailing the seven seas since 1964.
The best liveaboard catamarans are the Manta 42, the Nautitech 44, the Voyage 44, the Privilege 435, the Elba 35, and the Lagoon 380. These vessels are seaworthy, comfortable, and ideal for long-term living. We sourced the technical specifications of these vessels from maritime records and directly from sailboat manufacturers.
Xquisite Yachts has risen from the ashes of South Africa's Dean Catamarans and is aiming to become a force at the smaller end of the luxury cat market. Company owner Tamas Hamor has put some 20,000 miles on a Dean Cat 5000, the boat on which the new X5 is based.
The Seawind 1160 Lite platform features timber laminates that reduce the boat weight by almost 1,000kg. The catamaran layout maximizes the space of this 38-footer and allows for open airflow from the fully-opening cockpit doors through the saloon, down into the cabins, and through the forward wet locker. With 360 degree views and plenty of ...
Easy to build catamaran ideal for inexperienced amateur boat builders. This easy to build catamaran is intended to allow anyone, no matter their background, to build a modern cruising multihull with a thrilling performance and an appealing design with a small budget. The Bora-Bora 28 has a very practical interior lay-out with accommodation ...
Innovation as a foundation. The largest sailing catamaran in our range without a flybridge, the Aura 51 is a real game-changer. She is designed for sailors - with or without a crew - who aspire to experience cruising with a capital C for comfort. On this yacht, guests do not have to envy the owners when it comes to enjoying comfort and privacy.
Owen Clarke Design began as sailing multihull designers, sailors and project managers. Our first multihull was Fiery Cross a racing trimaran design by Merfyn Owen in 1987. Their first custom cruising yacht was Syn Y Mor, a 30' fast cruising catamaran and the first collaboration with Allen Clarke. In recent years they worked with clients on a Multi50 trimaran project and most recently 20m racer ...
Catamaran and Trimaran Boat Plans make it a reality to build your own catamaran or trimaran. Multi-hulled sailing vessels are a special class of boat. A very different mind set is required when thinking about sailing a multi hull, let alone getting your head around building one. There are some unique challenges building a multi-hull sail boat ...
Owners' cabins are luxurious, airy, and spacious serving as a very comfortable living space, rather than just a place to sleep. 3. Wave-Piercing or Reverse Bows. Wave-piercing or reverse bows are considered cutting-edge naval architecture and one of the latest popular catamaran. design trends.
Introduction to Piment Rouge. A new catamaran is rallying to the Caribbean this fall. Piment Rouge (Red Pepper), the name of Captain Pierre De Saint Vincent's former Outremer 51, which has crisscrossed the Atlantic between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean over the last three years, is now the moniker of his just-launched 50' Catana Ocean Class yacht.
The red twin-hull catamaran in the images and video above is Safehaven's new T-2000 Voyager, a 20-m (66-ft), long-range, high-performance, semi-wave piercing explorer boat capable of speeds over ...