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Is a Catamaran Easy to Sail?

Speaking of sailing, having access to the most innovative and the best quality yacht makes a difference. It makes the vacation on the water extraordinary. If you are looking to maximize comfort and next-level relaxation, then you should try catamaran sailing. If you are not familiar with it, here are some catamaran sailing basics.

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What is Catamaran?

Compared to a monohull, the catamaran has two hulls connected by crossbeams. Staterooms are located in the hulls and each of them has their private head. When it comes to the deckhouse and the bridge deck, they are used as the saloon and the galley, as well as for navigating. Some of the catamarans feature another level which is known by the name of fly-bridge.

CATAMARAN BENEFITS

If we talk about catamaran benefits, one of them is that they offer a lot of individual living space thanks to their two hulls. This makes the time on-board even more relaxing. Catamarans lay like a raft on the water which makes the sailing with them easy and without any heeling. One more thing about catamarans which is good is that they can anchor in almost any bay. This is because their low drafts make it possible to get closer to shore than a monohull.

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If we talk about the sailing, the helmsman can execute almost all sailing manoeuvres single-handedly since the necessary lines are being redirected to the helm. The sailor can rely on the autopilot to support. This is simplified by having two engines and two propellers.

Many catamarans sailing blogs will give you information about catamaran benefits. One of them is also that this vessel’s low draft helps in navigating shallow reef passages and enables you to anchor closer to the shore. They are also lighter and have less wave impedance. This means that sometimes this makes them faster than a monohull, particularly when it comes to sailing at reaching angles.

Speaking of the deck, these vehicles have been created with more living space in mind, and additional areas for enjoying the outdoors. Electric davits make lifting the dinghy easy. The luxurious fly-bridges provide more space which makes it perfect for entertainment.

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HOW DOES A CATAMARAN WORK?

If you want to know how do they work and are catamarans safe, you should know that they have different features.

Safety is the first important feature of a catamaran, which includes easy access to the control panel and the ability to communicate effortlessly with the crew in the deckhouse, saloon and on deck.

The second feature is the set-up. All the clients’ needs are met with this vessel. This includes optimal hull design for more space in the interior, large deckhouse. Interior and exterior living spaces are connected and the seating options on the bridge deck for taking in the wonderful views.

IS CATAMARAN EASY TO SAIL?

If you are wondering how to sail a catamaran, and you are not sure, here are some catamaran sailing tips that you can use the next time when you have the opportunity to cruise with this wonderful vessel:

    • A sailing catamaran can drift off easily so anchoring should be performed as swiftly as possible, particularly if the wind blows from the side.
    • If you want to use the engines and not the steering wheel when manoeuvring, what you should do is to turn the wheel to noon and work exclusively with the throttle control.
    • When making a turn, approaching fast. You can let the jib luff so that the wind can push the bow around.
    • Thanks to their wide beam, catamarans are usually more expensive when it comes to docking. Avoid these extra costs by looking for a secluded cove and anchor there while enjoying the peaceful scenery.

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.