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What is the smallest catamaran?

The words “mini” and “catamaran” do not always go in the same sentence, but as you already know, there is such thing as a small catamaran sailboat. This is why we decided to create a catamaran manufacturers list and present you with the best and most comfortable small catamaran.

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Lagoon 380

Small production catamarans are not very common, and this is why Lagoon 380 is so enticing. This is the best mini catamaran at the moment, and apparently the most popular of this company’s catamaran fleet. The 380 was launched for the first time in the year 1999 and more than 500 hulls have built to date. Even though there are people who state that this model has been replaced by the much-updated Lagoon 39, the 380 still appears to be a part of the company’s current model lineup.

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Leopard 44

One of the best small cruising catamaran for a couple is Leopard 44. The most notable feature of this cat is that it has two cockpits – one aft and one forward with a hardtop overhead and a door that leads straight to it if you are coming from the saloon. With this small catamaran, now instead of cooking while facing West, you can escape to the shade of the forward cockpit. When you are cruising with Leopard 44, it is not just the sunset that makes it an ideal place to hang out. It is protected from the elements by a Bimini and it also comes with a canvas splashguard in case of heavy seas or rain.

Fountaine Pajot Saba 50

This small catamaran sailboat has optimized liveability and comfort for up to 10 overnight residents. Fortune Pajot Saba 50 can carry many more occupants for a daysail, making the vessel an ultimate entertaining platform. A dozen people can relax in various parts of the boat between the dual sun pads on the bow, the large transom seat aft, the cockpit settees or the flybridge lounge. The best part is that no one will ever feel crowded because, in Fountaine Pajot Saba 50, four different social interactions can take place outside without any of them disturbing the others.

Bali 4.5

The “Open Space” as it is called by its builder leaps out of the pack at a boat show. Bali 4.5 is a small cruising catamaran that was made by the designer Olivier Poncin. With this boat, the designer reached beyond tradition in a breakthrough innovative fashion and rethought the forward deck space of the catamaran.

The new design of Bali 4.5 takes away with the forward trampoline, replacing it with what can only be called a patio. Traditionally, catamarans have kept the forward deck light by incorporating little, yet bracing beams and netting, nevertheless this company has added solid surfaces covered with cushions.

Lagoon 620

According to many, this is the best small catamaran. It is not that small, yet it is comfy and capable, the three-tiered Lagoon 620 feels like a small city block with plenty of space and comfort options. The boat has two levels which are impressive, however, the real differentiator on this model is the flybridge, which is no compressed upper deck – it is a full bridge with a separate crew and guest areas. Visibility from the twin wheels is wonderful and the sheet boxes border with them to keep the area tidy and free of line clutter. So, whenever you want to be alone or sip a cocktail while seated at the starboard L-shaped settee, you will not be in anyone else’s way up here.

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Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.