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What Are The Advantages of A Catamaran?

Catamarans are one of the most popular vessels we can see in the famous sailing destinations. Nevertheless, have you ever wondered why cat sailing boats are liked that much? And why are they more attractive than sailboats? We can answer that question further by addressing the pros and cons of catamarans.

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Catamaran Advantages

Speaking of a modern catamaran, the vessel has more advantages than disadvantages and here is why:

1. Catamarans are comfortable
They have much more space than monohulls. This means the cockpit and living room between two hulls allow comfortable space. This is very important, particularly when traveling from one to another longer destination. This is also of great value when children come on board.

2. Are Catamarans More Stable?
If you have more stability, you would have less floating. Cats are built in a more different way than monohulls, therefore there is a little floating on waves. These movements are rather an upside-down, which is a piece of good news for crew members that have problems with seasickness.

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3. Sailing Cats Have Bigger Speed
The side length of the yacht is twice as long as in the traditional sailing yachts because they have 2 hulls. Thanks to that they can sail much faster monohulls. They are generally lighter since they do not have kneel which weighs usually a few hundreds of kilograms.

4. They Have A Smaller Draft
Speaking of catamaran benefits, lack of keel results in a smaller draft. In comparison to sailboats, catamarans draft is 1 – 1.2 meter in comparison to the sailboats whose drafts are 1.9 – 2.3 meters long. This gives a real opportunity to sail closer to the beach or even to put hulls on the ground when sailing in sandy bays.

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5. Are Catamarans Safe?
The two separate engines give absolute comfort moving in narrow marinas. You can turn around the whole boat in one place while you set one engine forward and one engine backward. With this, there is no risk that the wind will push the bow to the left or right without any control since you can always use two engines to flawlessly navigate forward or backward, bow or stern or left and right.

Catamaran Disadvantages

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1. Premium Price
There is a bit higher price to be paid for charter with catamarans thanks to all of the advantages mentioned above. Charter of catamarans is a bit more expensive than yachts of the same length, but it is definitely worth it.

2. Hard to Find a Place in Marinas
Since catamarans require two times more space than yachts in the marina it is not simple to find two free places one next to each other in crowded marinas. So for this case, it is best to book the marinas earlier before coming, of course, if you want to be sure you will find a place there.

3. Availability
Despite the higher price for charter and a smaller number of them in comparison to sailboats, cats are extremely charming. That’s why when you want to charter a multihull always book them early.

Many catamarans are attractive in the Caribbean, Seychelles, Thailand, even in Croatia, Greece, and Italy. Even though monohulls are still higher than cats, the trend is stating that these vessels become more and more popular as time passes!

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.